Porta Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Porta is a private irrigation dam located in Custer, Montana, along Freddie Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this Earth-type dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 792 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Porta is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.

Situated in a low hazard potential area, Porta has not been assessed for its condition, but it continues to serve its primary purpose of irrigation effectively. With a geographic coordinate of 46.515 latitude and -105.3492 longitude, the dam contributes to water resource management in the region. As a vital water infrastructure in Congressional District 00, Montana, Porta offers a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and agricultural sustainability in the area.

Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Porta plays a crucial role in supporting local agricultural activities in Terry, Montana. As an essential piece of water infrastructure, this private irrigation dam underscores the importance of effective regulatory oversight and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality. With its construction dating back to the mid-20th century, Porta stands as a testament to the enduring significance of water resources in shaping the landscape and livelihoods of communities in the region.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

792

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

FREDDIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

123

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.