J Larson #2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Larson (Garfield) Weeding #2
Last Updated: January 7, 2026
J Larson #2, located in Garfield County, Montana, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1960 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes along Smoky Butte Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 14 feet and a length of 200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 187 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource in the region. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), J Larson #2 plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. While the dam has not been inspected in recent years and lacks an emergency action plan, its presence offers essential benefits for local firefighting efforts, livestock watering, and habitat enhancement for small fish species. The dam's location in Congressional District 00 under the oversight of Representative Greg Gianforte underscores its significance in the region's water resource management and climate resilience strategies.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable practices and infrastructure improvements, J Larson #2 stands as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and enhancing existing water storage systems. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, the dam serves as a testament to the ongoing challenges and opportunities in ensuring water security and ecological balance in Montana's diverse landscape. By prioritizing regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures, stakeholders can work towards safeguarding J Larson #2 and similar structures for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
SMOKY BUTTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
187 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
J Larson #2