Lefdehl Reservoir Report
Nearby: Robinson Sunday Milk
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Malta, Montana, Lefdehl is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1928 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a dam height of 15 feet and a length of 300 feet, Lefdehl has a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a normal storage of 44 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Alkali Creek in Phillips County and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in "Not Rated" condition, Lefdehl plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and water resource management. The dam has not undergone recent inspections or condition assessments, and emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures are not currently in place. The dam's primary source agency is the state of Montana, and it falls under the jurisdiction of Congressional District 00, represented by Greg Gianforte.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lefdehl represents a fascinating case study of a historic earth dam serving multiple purposes in a rural Montana setting. Its location on TR-Alkali Creek highlights the importance of small-scale dams in supporting local agriculture, fire protection, and wildlife conservation efforts. As the climate continues to change, understanding the role of dams like Lefdehl in water management and ecosystem preservation becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable resource use and adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ALKALI CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Lefdehl