Balsam #6 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Balsam #4 J Hardy #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Balsam #6 is a privately owned earth dam located in Custer, Montana, along the TR-Powder River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1956, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, Balsam #6 plays a vital role in the local water resource management system.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Balsam #6 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While the dam has not been inspected recently and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it continues to serve its primary purposes effectively. Situated within Congressional District 00 of Montana, the dam is situated in a strategic location for water supply and management in the region.
As a key structure in the local water infrastructure, Balsam #6 provides essential services for fire protection, livestock, and aquatic habitat support. With its historical significance and ongoing relevance in water management, this earth dam represents a valuable asset in Montana's water resource and climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-POWDER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Balsam #6