Karen #7 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Matovich #1 Field #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Karen #7 is a private water resource located in Garfield, Montana, specifically in the city of VAN NORMAN.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This dam, built in 1945 by the USDA NRCS, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a dam height of 23 feet and a length of 135 feet, Karen #7 has a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.72 square miles. The dam is situated on the VAN COULTEN COULEE river/stream and is regulated by the DNRC, with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Karen #7 has a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk management measures and emergency preparedness status of the dam are not specified in the available data. With its key location in a critical water resource area and its multi-functional usage, Karen #7 represents an important structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and study in the context of sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
135 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
VAN COULTEN COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
1.72 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
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 #7