Ding-A-Ling Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Ding-A-Ling, a privately owned earth dam located in Poplar, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-South Fork Lisk Creek, Ding-A-Ling plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing essential resources to the surrounding area.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ding-A-Ling is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance. With a primary purpose of water resource management, Ding-A-Ling contributes to the local ecosystem and supports the region's agricultural and environmental needs.

As a key feature in the water infrastructure of Dawson County, Ding-A-Ling is a valuable asset for fire protection and livestock watering in the area. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this earth dam represents a blend of traditional water management practices and modern regulatory oversight. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Ding-A-Ling is essential in ensuring the sustainable use of our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH FORK LISK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.