Floating Rib Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tedson Reservoir Fish Lake (Pondera)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Floating Rib is a private earth dam located in the heart of Montana, specifically in the Pondera County city of Dupuyer.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this structure serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond, showcasing its versatility in water resource management. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, Floating Rib is a crucial component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential resources for the surrounding community.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Floating Rib is regulated and inspected to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state standards. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, its significance in water management cannot be overlooked. Situated along Miller Ditch, this dam plays a vital role in water storage and distribution, contributing to the sustainability of the local ecosystem and agricultural activities in the region. As a hidden gem in the water resource landscape of Montana, Floating Rib stands as a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of early water management practices in the state.
With its historical significance and practical utility, Floating Rib represents a blend of tradition and innovation in water resource management. As a privately owned structure, it highlights the importance of individual stewardship in preserving and enhancing water resources for future generations. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Floating Rib serve as a reminder of the value of responsible water management practices in ensuring the resilience of our ecosystems and communities.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MILLER DITCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Floating Rib
Headwaters, Sec. 34, T28N, R11W To Swift Reservoir