French #16 Reservoir Report
Nearby: French #15 French #17
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
French #16 is a privately owned dam located in Kinsey, Montana, along the TR-Coal Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1958, this Earth-type dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 125 feet, French #16 has a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 53 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure safety and compliance.
Located in Rosebud County, French #16 plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region, providing essential services for fire protection and agricultural activities. The dam's strategic location and design contribute to the overall water infrastructure in the area, supporting local communities and wildlife habitats. With its primary purpose being fire protection and livestock management, French #16 showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing environmental conditions.
As a key component of the water management system in Kinsey, French #16 exemplifies the collaboration between private ownership and state regulation in ensuring the safety and functionality of dams in Montana. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1950s, the dam continues to serve as a valuable asset for the community, highlighting the ongoing efforts to balance water conservation, agricultural needs, and environmental stewardship. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, French #16 presents a unique case study of a multipurpose dam that contributes to the resilience and sustainability of the local ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COAL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
French #16