Zelzo Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sikorski & Sons Nies
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Zelzo is a private irrigation dam located in Carter, Montana, along the TR-Little Beaver Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Zelzo plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its age, Zelzo continues to function efficiently, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area. The dam has not undergone any significant modifications over the years and is not rated for its condition. While it has not been assigned an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or undergone risk assessments, Zelzo remains a reliable structure for irrigation purposes. The dam's location in Congressional District 00, Montana, and its association with the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight its significance in water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be intrigued by the historical significance and functionality of Zelzo as a private irrigation dam in Montana. With its modest height and storage capacity, the dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining agricultural activities along the TR-Little Beaver Creek. While its condition assessment is not rated, Zelzo's low hazard potential and state regulation ensure its continued operation for irrigation purposes in the region. As a testament to early 20th-century water management practices, Zelzo embodies the importance of sustainable water resource utilization in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
184 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Zelzo