Aldebaran Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Aldebaran, also known as Pearson Reservoir, is a privately-owned earth dam located in Ledger, Montana.


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Summary

Completed in 1920, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond support. With a height of 35 feet and a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet, Aldebaran plays a significant role in water resource management in the area.

Situated on TR Little Flat Coulee, Aldebaran is under state jurisdiction and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). Despite being categorized as a significant hazard potential dam, its condition assessment is currently not rated. The dam has not been modified over the years, and its last inspection date, as well as other key data points, are not available.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Aldebaran presents an interesting case study in dam management and maintenance. Its location in Pondera County, Montana, and its historical significance as a water infrastructure highlight the importance of monitoring and ensuring the safety of such structures. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the condition and potential risks associated with dams like Aldebaran becomes crucial for sustainable water management in the region.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR LITTLE FLAT COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

97

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.