Penzer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Penzer Dam, located in Loma, Montana, is a privately owned structure on Dean Indian Coulee.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earthen dam stands at 10 feet in height and spans 800 feet in length, providing essential services for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Chouteau County.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Penzer Dam is classified as having low hazard potential, with its condition currently not rated. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections, it is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the state authorities on a regular basis. The dam's primary purpose and design make it a vital asset for safeguarding local water supplies and supporting wildlife habitats in the region.

Situated within Congressional District 00, Montana, Penzer Dam is a significant feature in the local hydraulic infrastructure. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam contributes to water management efforts in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Penzer Dam represents a key component in the sustainable utilization of water resources for various purposes in Chouteau County.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

DEAN INDIAN COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.