Sundial Reservoir Report
Nearby: Glasscock #1 Diamond #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sundial is a private earth dam located in Kinsey, Montana, along Dixon Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a height of 33 feet and a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet, Sundial is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected and enforced by state authorities. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
Situated in Custer County, Sundial's location at S4 8N 49E makes it an integral part of the regional water resource infrastructure. Its primary source agency is the State of Montana, and it falls under the jurisdiction of the DNRC. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection, livestock, and recreational activities. With a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 192 feet, Sundial stands as a testament to the importance of water management in ensuring the sustainability of the local ecosystem and community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and availability, Sundial's role in providing essential services like fire protection becomes increasingly critical. With its state-regulated status and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, Sundial exemplifies the importance of responsible water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions. As a key feature in the landscape of Kinsey, Montana, Sundial stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and community well-being.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
192 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
DIXON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Sundial