Wahl Stock Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Wahl Stock Reservoir, located in Poplar, Montana, along Lost Creek, is a private earth dam completed in 1933 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 352 acre-feet, this reservoir serves as a vital water resource in McCone County. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Wahl Stock Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safe operation.

Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Wahl Stock Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With a maximum storage capacity of 352 acre-feet and a normal storage of 149 acre-feet, this reservoir provides essential water supply for various agricultural, domestic, and wildlife needs. In addition to its practical purposes, Wahl Stock Reservoir also offers recreational opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing, making it a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.

As a significant feature in the local landscape, Wahl Stock Reservoir represents a blend of historical significance and contemporary water management practices. With its location in the Omaha District and Congressional District 00 of Montana, this reservoir embodies the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Whether for fire protection, stock watering, or recreational enjoyment, Wahl Stock Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

LOST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

352

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.