Nefsy #4 (Custer) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nefsy #2 (Custer) Nefsy #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Nefsy #4 (Custer) is a privately owned earth dam located in Garland, Custer County, Montana, along Elk Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1952, the dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam remains under state jurisdiction and regulation by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
The dam's location in Congressional District 00, Montana, under the representation of Greg Gianforte, emphasizes its importance for fire protection and water resource management in the region. Although the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, its low hazard potential suggests that it poses minimal risk to downstream areas. The absence of a rated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated risk assessment highlights the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Nefsy #4 (Custer) in providing essential water storage for fire protection and livestock needs in the region is crucial. With a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet and a history dating back to 1952, this earth dam plays a vital role in maintaining water security along Elk Creek. Continued state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the DNRC are essential to safeguarding the dam's integrity and minimizing potential risks to surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
990 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Nefsy #4 (Custer)