Tarum #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Tarum #2 is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Poplar, Montana, along the Hell Creek river.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 325 feet, providing a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance.

With a significant hazard potential, Tarum #2 has a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its risk management measures and emergency preparedness. The dam's location and design make it a crucial infrastructure for water management in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management practices and resiliency in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a key feature in the irrigation system of Valley County, Montana, Tarum #2 plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring water supply reliability for the community. With its historical significance and continued operational importance, this dam serves as a focal point for environmental stewardship and conservation efforts in the region. Monitoring and maintaining the safety and functionality of Tarum #2 is essential for sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

HELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

4.38

Nid Storage

182

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.