Keil Ranch Reservoir #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Keil Ranch Reservoir #1, located in Pondera County, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam structure completed in 1940 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

The reservoir has a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and a dam height of 30 feet, serving as a crucial water resource in the region. With a low hazard potential and no current condition assessment rating, the reservoir plays a vital role in providing water for agricultural and fire protection needs in the area.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Keil Ranch Reservoir #1 is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam overlooks TR-Little Flat Coulee and is situated in close proximity to the city of Ledger. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the reservoir contributes to the sustainability and resilience of the surrounding ecosystem and community, highlighting the importance of effective water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.

As a part of the broader water management efforts in Montana, Keil Ranch Reservoir #1 stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and state agencies in safeguarding water resources for multiple uses. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, the reservoir continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water availability for agricultural, livestock, and emergency firefighting purposes. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding and supporting the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Keil Ranch Reservoir #1 is essential for promoting sustainable water usage and mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on water availability.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE FLAT COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

86

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.