Rolph #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kool-Aid Instant Tang
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rolph #1 is a private earth dam located in Carter, Montana, built in 1948 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at 15 feet high with a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and serves the TR-MIDDLE SLICK CREEK watershed. Managed by the USDA NRCS, this structure is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is deemed to have a low hazard potential. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway width is 10 feet to manage a maximum discharge of 100 cubic feet per second.
Situated in a rural area, Rolph #1 plays a crucial role in water resource management for the surrounding community, particularly for fire protection and livestock needs. With a drainage area of 8.31 square miles, the dam provides essential water storage during dry periods while also supporting small-scale fisheries. The moderate risk assessment rating indicates the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Rolph #1 become increasingly vital. With its historical significance and practical purposes, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human needs, environmental stewardship, and the challenges posed by a changing climate. It stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage water resources sustainably and adapt to the evolving climate conditions in Montana.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MIDDLE SLICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
8.31 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lantis Spring Campground
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Lantis Spring
|
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Wickham Gulch Campground
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Rolph #1