Danelson Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lindquest #1 Drury
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Danelson Reservoir, located in Daniels, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1968 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, the reservoir has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 780 cubic feet per second. The dam stands at 22 feet high and has a length of 959 feet, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 106 feet. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the reservoir is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with guidelines.
Situated on TR-LINE COULEE, Danelson Reservoir offers a serene escape in the heart of Montana, with a surface area that provides ample recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The reservoir's location in POPLAR, with easy access from Congressional District 00, Montana, makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its risk assessment is moderate, signifying the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure.
With its moderate risk profile and recreational focus, Danelson Reservoir stands as a valuable asset in Montana's water resource landscape. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the reservoir's historic significance and functional design contribute to its appeal as a destination for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the beauty of Daniels County. As a key component of the state's water infrastructure, Danelson Reservoir exemplifies the harmonious balance between human recreation and environmental conservation in the context of water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
959 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LINE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
4.13 |
Nid Storage |
134 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Danelson Reservoir