Carson (Mn-66) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Carson (Mn-66) is a privately owned earth dam located in Zurich, Montana, along the Corral Coulee river/stream.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1940, this dam stands at a height of 45 feet and serves primarily for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential, Carson (Mn-66) plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, providing essential water for firefighting, livestock, and recreational fishing purposes. The dam's location in Blaine County, Montana, makes it a key infrastructure for local water supply and irrigation needs. Managed by private owners, the dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between private entities and state regulatory agencies to ensure the proper maintenance and operation of vital water resources.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Carson (Mn-66) in sustainable water management practices is crucial. By recognizing the role of such infrastructure in maintaining water supply reliability and supporting local ecosystems, enthusiasts can advocate for the responsible stewardship of these resources to mitigate the impacts of climate change and promote the long-term resilience of water systems in Montana and beyond.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

CORRAL COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

36

Nid Storage

180

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.