Epstlon Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Epstlon is a privately owned earth dam located in Chinook, Montana, with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock watering, and serving as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1940, the dam stands at 15 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agency.
Situated in Blaine County, Epstlon serves as a crucial water resource for the local community, especially in times of fire emergencies and for supporting livestock and fish habitats. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment. Despite not having a specific emergency action plan (EAP) or inundation maps prepared, Epstlon continues to play a vital role in water management and conservation in the area.
With its strategic location and multiple purposes, Epstlon stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in Montana. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Epstlon serve as essential assets in ensuring water security for both human and ecological needs in the region. The dam's history, functionality, and regulatory oversight make it a significant feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
50 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
DIFFUSED SURFACE WATER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
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.
Epstlon