Summary
Built in 1925, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 148 acre-feet, Karen #6 is primarily regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is considered to have a low hazard potential.
The dam is situated on the TR-Meckel Coulee river or stream and is part of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Although it has not been inspected recently and its condition is not rated, Karen #6 meets state regulatory requirements and is equipped with operational and enforcement protocols. The dam's location, in a remote area with limited risk of inundation, further contributes to its low hazard potential.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Karen #6 presents an interesting case study of a historic earth dam that continues to serve important functions in a rural Montana community. Its construction in the early 20th century reflects the efforts to manage water resources for multiple uses, while its current regulatory status highlights the ongoing importance of maintaining infrastructure for safety and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MECKEL COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
148 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Karen #6