Earl Krietel #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Earl Krietel #3 is a private earth dam located in Carter County, Montana, near Marmarth, North Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1959, this dam serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 303 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring that it meets state standards for safety and operation.

Situated on TR-Box Elder Creek, Earl Krietel #3 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. The dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. Despite its modest size, this dam is an important component of the local water infrastructure and provides essential services to the surrounding community. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the unique role that Earl Krietel #3 plays in balancing water needs for both human and environmental purposes in this region.

Overall, Earl Krietel #3 is a valuable water resource structure that exemplifies the intersection of human needs and environmental stewardship. Its presence on TR-Box Elder Creek helps to regulate water flow, provide irrigation for agricultural activities, and support local wildlife populations. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of dams like Earl Krietel #3 will be crucial in ensuring the sustainability of water supplies for future generations.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

105

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-BOX ELDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

303

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.