Lepus Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lepus, also known as Steve's Gulch Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource located in Missoula, Montana.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1956, serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the TR-Union Creek. With a dam height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet, Lepus plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the area.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Lepus is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, the reservoir provides a vital water source for the surrounding community. With a history dating back over half a century, Lepus continues to contribute to the sustainability of water resources in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic location of Lepus in Cottonwood, Montana, and its significant impact on the local economy and environment. As a key component of the irrigation infrastructure, Lepus plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and maintaining water availability for the community. With its earth dam structure and ample storage capacity, Lepus stands as a testament to effective water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-UNION CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

82

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.