French #15 Reservoir Report
Nearby: French #16 French #17
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
French #15 is a privately owned dam located in Kinsey, Montana, along Coal Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 349 acre-feet for purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, French #15 serves as a vital resource for the local community.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), French #15 is regulated and inspected by the state, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite not having a designated emergency action plan or updated risk assessment, the dam continues to provide essential services to the area. Situated in Rosebud County, Montana, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
With its tranquil location and historical significance, French #15 serves as a reminder of the vital role dams play in sustaining ecosystems and supporting community needs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts appreciate the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure like French #15, they can contribute to the preservation of valuable water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
COAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
349 |
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.
French #15