Fowler Dam #2 (Pondera) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fowler Dam #2 in Pondera, Montana, stands as a vital structure for fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam boasts a height of 12 feet and a length of 1320 feet, with a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet. Situated on the Fowler Coulee river, the dam is under state regulation by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety standards.

Located in the city of Loma, Fowler Dam #2 plays a crucial role in water resource management in Pondera County, Montana. With a significant hazard potential, the dam is deemed essential for maintaining water supply and protecting against potential emergencies. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam continues to serve its primary purposes effectively, contributing to the local ecosystem and providing essential water resources for the community.

As a privately owned structure, Fowler Dam #2 (Pondera) remains a key component of the water infrastructure in the region. With a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet and a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam continues to support various agricultural and environmental activities in the area. Under state jurisdiction and with regular inspections in place, Fowler Dam #2 stands as a testament to effective water management and conservation efforts in Montana.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1320

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

FOWLER COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

155

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.