Banka Dama Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Banka Dama, located in Pondera, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1930 for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 150 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and serves the Rocky Coulee stream. Despite being regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the dam is classified as low hazard potential with a condition assessment of "Not Rated".

Banka Dama's location in Loma, Montana, under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District and Congressional District 00, makes it an essential water resource structure for the region. While the dam has not been rated for its current condition, its primary purpose of fire protection and stock maintenance highlights its significance for both human and ecological needs. With its historical completion date and ongoing state regulation, Banka Dama stands as a testament to early water management practices in Montana and continues to play a vital role in local water resource management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Banka Dama offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of historical dam construction and modern regulatory oversight. As a privately owned structure with state jurisdiction and permitting, the dam represents a balance between human utilization of water resources and the need for environmental protection. With its location in a scenic area of Montana and its multiple purposes, including providing water for fire protection and supporting local wildlife, Banka Dama serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-ROCKY COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.