Latka Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Latka, a privately owned irrigation dam located in Poplar, Montana, was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1950.


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Summary

With a height of 14 feet and a length of 600 feet, Latka has a storage capacity of 272 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of irrigation. Situated on the North Fork East Redwater Creek, Latka is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Latka has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features a spillway width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 555 cubic feet per second. While it has not been modified over the years, Latka remains an integral part of the local water resource infrastructure, supporting agricultural activities in the area. With its strategic location and reliable functionality, Latka plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in Richland County, Montana.

As a key component of the irrigation system in Poplar, Latka contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources in the region. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the dam provides essential water supply for agricultural activities, helping to support local economies and food production. With its regulated status and low hazard potential, Latka stands as a testament to effective water infrastructure management and serves as a valuable asset for water and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of water resources and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK EAST REDWATERCR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

5.24

Nid Storage

272

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.