Alkali Flat Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sullivan Dam Cowpath Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Alkali Flat, located in Toole County, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1965 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
With a dam height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 397 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality.
The dam at Alkali Flat has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although there are no specific inspection or maintenance records provided, the structure is designed to meet fire protection needs and support local wildlife through the creation of a small fish pond. Located near Shelby, Montana, this dam serves as a valuable resource for the community, supporting agriculture and providing essential water storage capacity.
With a history dating back to the mid-1960s, Alkali Flat continues to play a significant role in water management and conservation efforts in Toole County. As a privately owned structure, it stands as a testament to the importance of small-scale dams in supporting local ecosystems and providing essential resources for agricultural and fire protection purposes. The dam's low hazard potential, combined with its state-regulated status and regular inspections, ensures that it remains a reliable and safe water resource for the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
DIFFUSED SURFACE WATER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
397 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Alkali Flat