Instant Tang Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kool-Aid Mowbray #3
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Instant Tang is a private earth dam located in Carter, Montana, along Middle Slick Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1954 by the USDA NRCS, this structure serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height and hydraulic height of 20 feet, Instant Tang has a storage capacity of 619 acre-feet and can discharge up to 1000 cubic feet per second. Its low hazard potential and state-regulated status make it a vital resource for water management in the area.
Owned and operated by a private entity, Instant Tang is situated in a picturesque location in Marmouth, South Dakota. The dam, with a length of 1200 feet, is designed to withstand varying water levels and has a spillway width of 70 feet. Despite being classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, Instant Tang continues to be a reliable water source for the surrounding community. The dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels for firefighting, livestock, and recreational purposes.
With its strategic location and efficient design, Instant Tang stands as a testament to effective water management practices in Montana. Its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and state regulatory agencies ensures that the dam is inspected, maintained, and operated in compliance with safety standards. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Instant Tang serves as a valuable resource for climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates alike, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE SLICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
4.8 |
Nid Storage |
619 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lantis Spring Campground
|
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Lantis Spring
|
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Wickham Gulch Campground
|
Instant Tang