Ozone Layer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Judith Gap, Montana, the Ozone Layer is a privately owned dam that serves as a multipurpose structure for fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 21 acre-feet. Situated on Stephens Gulch, the Ozone Layer dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the Ozone Layer dam has not undergone recent inspections or evaluations. However, its primary purpose of providing essential water resources for various activities underscores the importance of maintaining its structural integrity and functionality. As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of dams like the Ozone Layer becomes increasingly crucial in mitigating environmental risks and preserving water quality for future generations.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate conservation, understanding the significance of structures like the Ozone Layer dam in maintaining sustainable water management practices is paramount. By recognizing the role of dams in providing essential services while also being mindful of their potential environmental impacts, we can work towards promoting responsible water resource management and climate resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

STEPHENS GULCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.