Rudy's Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: R Owen #2 Two D-4 Ranch
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rudy's Dam, located in Carter, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1932 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 5 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 190.8 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 62.05 acres, making it a vital resource for water management in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Rudy's Dam is currently rated as unsatisfactory in condition assessment. The last inspection in July 2020 revealed the need for maintenance and repairs to ensure the dam's structural integrity. With a risk assessment rating of Very High (1), it is crucial for the Bureau of Land Management to prioritize risk management measures and regular inspections to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and water resources.
As a key feature in the Box Elder Creek/Little Missouri watershed, Rudy's Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its controlled spillway and historical significance, the dam stands as a testament to early water resource development in Montana. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change monitoring can appreciate the importance of maintaining and improving infrastructure like Rudy's Dam to ensure sustainable water management practices for future generations.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
970 |
River Or Stream |
BOX ELDER CK./LITTLE MISSOURI |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
62.05 |
Hydraulic Height |
5 |
Nid Storage |
190.8 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Rudy's Dam