Ernest Wallstein Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ernest Wallstein Dam in Montana, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, stands as a gravity dam on an unnamed drainage, serving to regulate flow and provide water storage in Carter County.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 31 feet and a structural height of 36 feet, the dam spans 1097 feet in length and boasts a storage capacity of 492 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having poor condition, with an inspection frequency of 5 years.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway, 54.5-acre surface area, and moderate risk assessment further highlight its importance in water resource management. Although its designer remains unknown, the Bureau of Land Management oversees its construction, operation, and regulatory matters. While its emergency action plan and risk management measures are yet to be fully disclosed, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource and climate resilience efforts in the region. Ernest Wallstein Dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between water management, infrastructure maintenance, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Dam Length

1097

River Or Stream

UNNAMED DRAINAGE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

54.5

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

492

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.