Howard Reservoir Report
Nearby: Vine Reservoir Fiske
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Howard is a private water resource located in McCone County, Montana, specifically in the city of Poplar.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet, it primarily draws water from the TR-Cow Creek, contributing to the overall water management in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Howard has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite lacking certain features like spillways or outlet gates, the dam remains in operation and meets state regulatory standards for inspection, enforcement, and permitting. While its risk assessment and emergency response preparedness are not fully documented, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting local water needs and ecosystems.
Located within Congressional District 00, Montana, Howard provides a vital resource for the community and surrounding areas. With its historical significance dating back over six decades, this earth dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices and the importance of private ownership in sustaining water resources for fire protection, agriculture, and wildlife conservation.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Howard