Zanzi Pal Reservoir Report
Nearby: Singer Sayer Prescott
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Zanzi Pal is a state-regulated earth dam located in Gildford, Montana, along O'Brien Coulee.
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Summary
Built in 1930, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Zanzi Pal plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite not having associated structures or a spillway, the dam provides essential water storage for various uses. The dam's location in Hill County, Montana, highlights the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in arid regions like the Northern Great Plains.
As climate change continues to impact water resources in the region, Zanzi Pal stands as a vital piece of infrastructure for maintaining water security. With its primary purpose of fire protection and stock water supply, the dam serves as a lifeline for local communities and ecosystems. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience, understanding and monitoring the condition of dams like Zanzi Pal is essential for ensuring their continued functionality in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
610 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
O'BRIEN COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
258 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Zanzi Pal