Ernest Reservoir Report
Nearby: Schoolhouse #6 Jfk
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ernest is a privately-owned water resource located in Saco, Montana, along the Tressler Coulee.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a storage capacity of 413 acre-feet, Ernest primarily caters to the local community's needs while also maintaining a low hazard potential.
Managed and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ernest is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. Despite being classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam's low hazard potential suggests a relatively stable and secure infrastructure. Situated in Phillips County, Ernest plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ernest offers a glimpse into the historical development of water infrastructure in rural Montana. As a key element in fire protection and agricultural activities, this privately-owned dam serves as a vital resource for the local community while also highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Ernest stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource utilization with environmental conservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRESSLER COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
413 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Ernest