Lenhart #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lenhart #5, located in Chinook, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1938 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 600 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet, offering essential water resources for the surrounding area. Situated on TR-LODGE CREEK, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its safety and functionality.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Lenhart #5 has not been given a condition rating, indicating the need for further assessment. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unknown, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring practices. With a maximum discharge capacity of 300 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management and flood control in the region, warranting attention and oversight to ensure its continued effectiveness.

As a vital structure in the water resource infrastructure of Hill County, Lenhart #5 plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply for fire protection, livestock, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and functional importance, the dam serves as a reminder of the need for sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. By staying informed and engaged in the upkeep and monitoring of Lenhart #5, water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation and resilience of this essential piece of infrastructure.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-LODGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

258

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.