Gerald Craft #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gerald Craft #5 is a privately-owned dam located in Carter, Montana, along TR-North Fork Willow Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1944, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a low hazard potential and a state-regulated status, this dam is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

The dam's location in a rural area underscores its importance for local water resource management and wildlife conservation. Despite its modest size, Gerald Craft #5 plays a crucial role in providing essential services for the surrounding community, including fire protection and agricultural support. The dam's construction and maintenance reflect a commitment to sustainable water use and environmental stewardship in the region.

As a key infrastructure element in the area, Gerald Craft #5 serves as a testament to the importance of private ownership in water resource management. By meeting regulatory standards and ensuring proper maintenance, this dam contributes to overall water security and climate resilience in Carter, Montana. Its history and functionality highlight the interconnectedness of water resources, climate adaptation, and community well-being in the region.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH FORK WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

107

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.