Kountz Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kountz, located in Custer County, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1939 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Situated on Finley Creek, this dam has a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. It serves as a vital resource for the local community, providing water for various purposes while also enhancing the natural habitat for wildlife in the area.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Kountz is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of 'Not Rated', this dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. Despite its age, Kountz continues to operate effectively, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Montana.

As a key structure in the area, Kountz contributes to the overall water management strategy, supporting fire protection, livestock needs, and ecological balance. With its strategic location in Congressional District 00 and close proximity to the city of Terry, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and community engagement. By highlighting the significance of Kountz and similar dams, water resource and climate enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for a thriving ecosystem.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

FINLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

76

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.