Knottnerus Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Knottnerus is a privately owned dam located in Chouteau, Montana, along TR-Little Sandy Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state.

With a low hazard potential and a "Not Rated" condition assessment, Knottnerus has not been evaluated for its current structural integrity. Despite this, its location in the HOLE IN THE WALL LANDINGREC area makes it a vital resource for water storage and protection in the region. Its maximum discharge capacity is 337 cubic feet per second, ensuring adequate water management during times of heavy rainfall or flooding events. While the dam has not been assessed for emergency action planning or risk management measures, its presence plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources in the surrounding area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Knottnerus in water management is essential. With its storage capacity, structural design, and regulatory oversight, Knottnerus serves a vital role in the local ecosystem and economy. Monitoring and maintaining this earth dam will be crucial in safeguarding water resources for both human and environmental needs in Chouteau, Montana.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

395

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.