Ghost #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Ghost #5 is a privately owned dam located in Poplar, Montana, along the TR-Hell Creek river.


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Summary

Built in 1953 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at 17 feet high and spans 500 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, and serving as a small fish pond, providing a vital resource for the local community.

With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Ghost #5 is regulated by the DNRC and subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite not being under federal ownership or funding, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area, reflecting the importance of private infrastructure in maintaining water resources in a changing climate.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the complexities of water management, Ghost #5 serves as a tangible example of the intersection between human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. The dam's role in fire protection, stock maintenance, and ecological support highlights the interconnectedness of water resources and the need for sustainable practices to ensure the resilience of our water systems in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-HELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.