Venus Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jupiter U N Reservoir
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Venus is a privately owned water resource located in Hill, Montana, serving as a source of diffused surface water for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, completed in 1819, stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment yet to be rated, Venus is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its functionality and safety.
Situated in the picturesque city of Chinook, Venus is a vital infrastructure contributing to the local community's water needs and emergency preparedness. Managed by private owners, the dam's primary purpose is to safeguard against fires and provide water for livestock and recreational fishing. With a history dating back to the early 19th century, the dam continues to play a crucial role in supporting the area's agricultural and environmental sustainability by harnessing and storing surface water resources efficiently.
Despite its historic significance and ongoing operational role, Venus has not been assessed for its current condition, raising questions about its long-term maintenance and safety measures. As a part of the state-regulated water infrastructure, Venus remains a key asset in the region's water management and conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and adherence to regulatory guidelines to ensure its continued functionality and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1819 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
DIFFUSED SURFACE WATER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
145 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Venus