Carters Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Carters Reservoir, located in Phillips County, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the DNRC.
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Summary
The reservoir, completed in 1954, serves as a vital water source for agricultural purposes, with a storage capacity of 342 acre-feet and a drainage area of 12.97 square miles. The dam, standing at a height of 25 feet and a length of 650 feet, helps control water flow in Tank Coulee, with a maximum discharge capacity of 500 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential and the absence of a condition assessment rating, Carters Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation in the region. The presence of state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement ensure the proper maintenance and operation of the reservoir. With a spillway width of 200 feet and a primary purpose of irrigation, the reservoir supports agriculture in the area, contributing to the sustainable use of water resources and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TANK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
12.97 |
Nid Storage |
342 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Carters Reservoir