Kat Ruler Reservoir Report
Nearby: Elloam Ass.Reservoir Stanley Steamer
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kat Ruler, a privately owned dam located in Chinook, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Constructed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-LODGE CREEK river, Kat Ruler plays a crucial role in the local water resource management, especially for firefighting and agricultural activities in the area.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Kat Ruler is categorized as a low hazard potential structure with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." Despite not having a recent inspection date or condition assessment, the dam has been designated as meeting state jurisdiction and regulatory requirements, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place. Although not operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Kat Ruler remains an important feature in the local water infrastructure landscape.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Kat Ruler in supporting both human activities and wildlife habitat in the region. With its modest size and low hazard potential, this dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water management, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship in the context of changing climate patterns and resource conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LODGE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Kat Ruler