Heslo Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kniep Kamp Paul Huber
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Heslo is a private water storage structure located in McCone County, Montana, specifically in the city of Poplar.
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Summary
Built in 1942, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. Its primary purposes include fire protection, stock watering, and serving as a small fish pond. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Situated on TR-Sheep Creek, Heslo plays a crucial role in providing water for various uses in the region while also mitigating potential hazards. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," with no recent inspection date available. Emergency action plans may not be fully prepared or up to date, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this water resource infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Heslo presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in a rural setting, showcasing the intersection of water management, regulatory oversight, and environmental stewardship in Montana's water landscape.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SHEEP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Heslo