Gearhart #15 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crosby #4 Gearhart #4
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Gearhart #15, also known as El Rancho #5, is a privately-owned earth dam located in Rosebud County, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1951 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water, and small fish pond management. Situated on TR-Stellar Creek, this structure has a dam height of 16 feet and a length of 750 feet, with a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment. Despite being state-regulated and inspected, there is no information available on its last inspection date or frequency. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 100 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 700 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 5.16 square miles, Gearhart #15 plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
While the risk assessment for this dam is moderate, there is no detailed information on risk management measures or emergency action plans. With its strategic location and multi-purpose functionality, Gearhart #15 is a vital asset for the community of Cartersville and surrounding areas, providing essential water resources for agricultural, wildlife, and fire protection needs. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance and condition of structures like Gearhart #15 is essential for sustainable water management and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-STELLAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
5.16 |
Nid Storage |
184 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Gearhart #15