Cracker Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fowl Mouth Letz Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cracker, also known as Tom Jones Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Ledger, Montana.
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Summary
Built in 1915, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. Situated on the TR-DRY FORK MARIAS RIVER, Cracker plays a crucial role in water management in the area.
Despite its age, Cracker remains in a significant hazard potential category, with its condition yet to be rated. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state inspection, enforcement, and permitting in place. However, details such as the last inspection date and condition assessment are not readily available, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource.
With its historical significance and vital role in water management, Cracker stands as a testament to early water infrastructure development in Montana. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining and upgrading dams like Cracker will be crucial in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRY FORK MARIAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marias River Near Shelby Mt
|
305cfs |
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Cut Bank Creek At Cut Bank Mt
|
138cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |
Teton River Bl South Fork Nr Choteau Mt
|
44cfs |
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.
Cracker