Ratzburg's Army Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fowler #1 (Pondera) Algol
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ratzburg's Army is a privately owned earth dam located in Loma, Montana, along the Dead Indian Coulee.
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Summary
Completed in 1945, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 500 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 28 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment has not been rated.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ratzburg's Army is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam is situated in Toole County, within the jurisdiction of the state of Montana. The surrounding area is represented by Congressional District 00, with Greg Gianforte as the current representative. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, it is essential to ensure that proper maintenance and emergency preparedness measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ratzburg's Army provides a unique example of a privately owned dam contributing to local water management and conservation efforts. As part of the broader network of water infrastructure in Montana, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities, fire protection, and wildlife habitat. With its historical significance and functional versatility, Ratzburg's Army serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
DEAD INDIAN COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
Marias River Near Shelby Mt
|
305cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
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.
Ratzburg's Army