Walstom Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Walstom, also known as Floyd Walston Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Conrad, Montana.


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Summary

This reservoir serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. Built in 1920, Walstom stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet. It is situated on the TR-Pondera Coulee, under the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

With its significant hazard potential, Walstom plays a vital role in water management and climate resilience in Pondera County. Although its condition assessment is currently rated as "Not Rated," the reservoir's regulatory compliance, inspection, and enforcement are overseen by state agencies. While specific details such as spillway type, width, and other engineering features are not provided, Walstom's historical significance and ongoing importance for local water supply and ecosystem support make it a valuable asset in the region's water infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Walstom represents a blend of historical engineering excellence and modern water management challenges. As a private reservoir in a rural setting, its role in sustaining local agriculture, wildlife habitats, and emergency response capabilities cannot be understated. The reservoir's location, design features, and management practices contribute to the broader conversation on sustainable water use and climate adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-PONDERA COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

98

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.