Fransen Reservoir Report
Nearby: G N R R Dunkirk Reservoir Melcott
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fransen is a private water resource located in Toole, Montana, designed by USDA NRCS and regulated by the DNRC.
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Summary
Completed in 1922, this earthen dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, Fransen plays a crucial role in water management in the area.
Situated along the TR-Dunkirk Coulee, Fransen covers a drainage area of 10.94 square miles and has a spillway width of 40 feet. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, this dam continues to provide essential services for the community of Devon and surrounding areas. With its historical significance and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Fransen remains a key component of water resource infrastructure in Montana.
Managed by the Omaha District and located in Congressional District 00, Montana, Fransen's presence underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the region. With its primary purpose of fire protection and stock irrigation, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of federal and state agencies to ensure water security for both human and environmental needs. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate Fransen's role in maintaining a balance between human activity and natural ecosystems in the area.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
504 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DUNKIRK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
10.94 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Fransen