Leidholt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Leidholt Dam, located in Custer County, Montana, is a gravity dam on East Forty Creek with a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 25 feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the dam was constructed for water resource management purposes and has a storage capacity of 58.2 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, it has not been condition assessed and has not undergone a recent inspection since July 2013.

The dam, with a length of 620 feet and a surface area of 7.8 acres, plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the area. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unknown, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. As an essential water resource infrastructure in the region, Leidholt Dam serves as a key asset for managing water resources and mitigating the impact of climate change on the surrounding environment.

With its association with the Bureau of Land Management, Leidholt Dam exemplifies the collaboration between federal agencies and local communities in safeguarding water resources. The dam's strategic location in Custer County underscores its significance in supporting agricultural activities, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Leidholt in water management is vital for promoting sustainable practices and addressing the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Dam Length

620

River Or Stream

EAST FORTY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

7.8

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

58.2

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.