Kelso #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kelso #5 Offerdahl-Johnson Dam
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Kelso #3 is a privately owned earth dam located in Malta, Montana, along the TR-Flat Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1945 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a height of 8 feet and a length of 200 feet, Kelso #3 has a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Kelso #3 is considered to have a low hazard potential and its condition is currently not rated. Despite lacking recent inspection and assessment data, this dam stands as a vital water resource infrastructure in the area. Its construction and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to sustainable water management practices, making it an essential asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
Located in Congressional District 00 of Montana, Kelso #3 stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resource infrastructure for various purposes. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a key component in ensuring water security and conservation efforts in the region. For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Kelso #3 offers a valuable case study in sustainable dam construction and maintenance practices.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR-FLAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Kelso #3