French #18 Reservoir Report
Nearby: French #2 French #17
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
French #18 is a private dam located in Kinsey, Montana, along Sage Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and stretches 175 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond, providing a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," French #18 serves as a vital resource for water management in the region. Although it has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain infrastructure such as spillways and outlet gates, the dam continues to fulfill its intended purposes effectively. The surrounding area, part of Congressional District 00 in Montana, benefits from the presence of this structure for fire protection and stock watering needs.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find French #18 to be a fascinating example of a privately owned dam making a significant impact on the local ecosystem. Its history dating back to the mid-20th century, combined with its essential functions for fire protection and livestock support, highlight the importance of such structures in managing water resources in rural areas. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations, French #18 stands as a testament to the crucial role dams play in sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SAGE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
79 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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 #18