Trout Reservoir Report
Nearby: Killen Dam Trail Creek Retention Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Trout, located in Rosebud, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1957 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond along Ryans Fork. Despite being regulated by the state and having state jurisdiction, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and is considered to have a low hazard potential.
Trout serves as an essential water resource for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 4.69 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 130 acre-feet. The dam's location in Carterville, Montana, makes it a vital component of the local ecosystem and a key structure for maintaining water levels and protecting against potential fires. Operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Trout has not undergone recent inspections or been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure its long-term reliability and safety for the community.
Despite its low hazard potential, Trout represents a critical infrastructure for water management and conservation in Montana. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam's role in fire protection and water storage underscores its importance in the region. As climate change threatens water resources and ecosystems, the proper maintenance and oversight of Trout will be crucial in preserving its functionality and safeguarding its surrounding environment for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
RYANS FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
4.69 |
Nid Storage |
154 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Trout