Just Barely Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Just Barely is a private earth dam located in Loma, Montana, along the TR-Flat Coulee river.


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Summary

Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this recreational dam stands at 22 feet high and has a length of 200 feet. With a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.12 square miles, Just Barely offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Just Barely has a low hazard potential and is rated as having a moderate risk. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community. With an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 244 cubic feet per second, Just Barely serves as a vital water resource for the area.

Despite its age, Just Barely continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a peaceful retreat for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. With its picturesque location and historical significance, this privately owned dam stands as a testament to the importance of water conservation and sustainable management practices in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-FLAT COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

3.12

Nid Storage

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.