Vaira Reservoir Report
Nearby: V E G Gunderson Latka
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Vaira is a privately-owned earth dam located in Richland County, Montana, near the city of Nohley.
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Summary
Constructed in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and small fish pond management. With a dam height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, Vaira plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam is situated on Middle Charlie Creek and is regulated by the state agency DNRC. Despite being categorized as low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as 'Not Rated'. With an emphasis on state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Vaira is designed to meet fire protection and water supply needs while also ensuring environmental safety. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 4.08 square miles, highlighting the importance of this structure in managing water flow and storage.
Overall, Vaira represents a key component of water resource management in Montana, providing essential services for both human and ecological needs. With its strategic location and design, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in mitigating climate impacts and supporting local communities.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE CHARLIE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
4.08 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Vaira