Letz Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Letz Lake, located in Pondera, Montana, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The lake serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. Constructed in 1952, the earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Letz Lake plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area. The dam is regulated by the DNRC and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite not being currently rated for its condition, the lake provides essential water resources for various uses while also supporting wildlife habitat in the region.

Situated along the TR-DRY FORK MARIAS RIVER, Letz Lake offers a picturesque setting for water and climate enthusiasts to observe the intersection of human management and natural ecosystems. Managed by private owners and designed by the NRCS, this water resource embodies the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-DRY FORK MARIAS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.