Smurfit-Stone Container Storage Ponds Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smurfit-Stone Container Storage Ponds, located in Missoula, Montana, is a privately owned offstream water resource managed by the DNRC.


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Summary

This earth dam stands 25 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1414 acre-feet of water. Despite not being regularly inspected or rated for condition, the dam holds a significant hazard potential due to its size and location.

This water storage facility, completed in an unknown year, plays a crucial role in water management and conservation in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 1272 acre-feet, it serves as a vital resource for the local community and ecosystem. However, the lack of recent inspections and condition assessments raises concerns about the potential risks associated with the dam, highlighting the need for proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability.

As a key infrastructure in the region, Smurfit-Stone Container Storage Ponds warrants attention from water resource and climate enthusiasts to ensure its continued function and safety. Advocating for regular inspections, condition assessments, and risk management measures can help mitigate the potential hazards and preserve this valuable water resource for future generations.

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

1414

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.