Matador Ranch #6 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Matador Ranch #8 Matador Ranch #4
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Matador Ranch #6 is a privately owned earth dam located in Malta, Montana, along Bear Gulch.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and a small fish pond. With a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, Matador Ranch #6 plays a vital role in water resource management in the area.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), this low hazard dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite being state regulated and inspected, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment status remain unknown. Given its location in a rural area, Matador Ranch #6 serves as a crucial water resource for agricultural activities, wildlife habitat, and fire protection, highlighting the importance of monitoring and maintaining its integrity for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Matador Ranch #6 offers a fascinating case study of a multi-purpose dam that has been in operation for over five decades. With its strategic location along Bear Gulch and the Omaha District, this dam not only provides essential water supply but also contributes to the local ecosystem and agricultural sustainability. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Matador Ranch #6 play a crucial role in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR GULCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Matador Ranch #6