Wanken Reservoir Report
Nearby: The Moonspinner Ed Mcintyre
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wanken is a private earth dam located in Toole, Montana, along the TR-MARIAS RIVER.
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Summary
Built in 1928, it stands at 30 feet high and has a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet, primarily serving the purposes of fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.
With a significant hazard potential, Wanken is a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, providing essential services for fire protection and agricultural needs. The dam's location in a remote area without a designated town underscores its importance in safeguarding the local ecosystem and water supply. Managed by private owners, Wanken plays a vital role in supporting the community and maintaining water security in the region.
Despite its age, Wanken has not been rated for its condition, indicating a need for further assessment and potential maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its ongoing role in water management, highlights the importance of continued monitoring and upkeep to preserve its integrity and protect the surrounding environment from potential risks. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wanken represents a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MARIAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
185 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Wanken