Umstead Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fink Reservoir Cimrhakle #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Umstead Reservoir, located in Fergus County, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1948 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
With a height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 912 acre-feet, the reservoir serves primarily for fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. It 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.
The reservoir is situated on the TR-Fargo Coulee and has a drainage area of 0.47 square miles. It has a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Umstead Reservoir is deemed to have a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. Although the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the reservoir's structure and functionality are regularly monitored to maintain its integrity and safety.
Overall, Umstead Reservoir serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, offering essential services such as fire protection and stock watering. As a key component of the local ecosystem, it is important for water and climate enthusiasts to understand and appreciate the role that this reservoir plays in sustaining the community and supporting various activities. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, Umstead Reservoir continues to be a valuable asset for the region.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FARGO COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
912 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
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.
Umstead Reservoir