Tutsch Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tutsch Reservoir, located in Fergus County, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam that serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and serving as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1939, this reservoir has a dam height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 28 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Coffee Creek, this reservoir is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, Tutsch Reservoir provides a vital water resource for the surrounding area while posing minimal risk to the community. The reservoir's location in a remote area without a designated town nearby adds to its appeal as a serene and natural retreat. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it continues to serve its intended purposes effectively, showcasing the enduring engineering and design of this historic structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Tutsch Reservoir as a prime example of sustainable water management practices, with a focus on multi-use functionality and safety. The reservoir's history, design, and purpose all contribute to its significance as a valuable asset for both the local ecosystem and the community it serves. As a well-regulated and maintained structure, Tutsch Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-COFFEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

47

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.