Ostleer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Ostleer Dam, located in Petroleum County, Montana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


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Summary

This dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a primary purpose of supporting wildlife in the area. Constructed with stone core types and soil foundations, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, with a length of 209 feet.

With a storage capacity of 246 acre-feet, the Ostleer Dam provides vital water resources for the surrounding area, covering a surface area of 48 acres and draining a 0.6 square mile watershed. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections every 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in November 2019. Although its condition is currently not rated, the dam continues to contribute to the conservation of wildlife and management of water resources in the region.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the Ostleer Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and maintaining water storage for wildlife. As a structure designed for fish and wildlife conservation, this dam showcases the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship. Its low hazard potential and regular inspections ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam in fulfilling its purpose, making it a significant asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Dam Length

209

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

48

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

246

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.