Black Out (Pondera) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Black Out (Pondera) is a privately owned dam located in Loma, Montana, in Pondera County.
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Summary
Completed in 1928, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
This low hazard potential dam is designed to mitigate the risk of flooding and provide essential water resources for the surrounding area. Despite its age, the condition of Black Out (Pondera) has not been officially rated, and there is no available information on its emergency action plan or risk management measures. Situated in a diffused surface water source, the dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and water supply infrastructure, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and oversight to address potential climate-related challenges and ensure its continued functionality for years to come.
As a key component of the state's water resource management system, Black Out (Pondera) serves as a critical asset for fire protection and agricultural activities in the region. With its historical significance and practical utility, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential risks and ensure sustainable water supply for the community.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
DIFFUSED SURFACE WATER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
93 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
Marias River Near Shelby Mt
|
305cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |
Muddy Creek At Vaughn Mt
|
86cfs |
Sun River Near Vaughn Mt
|
2680cfs |
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.
Black Out (Pondera)