Little Montes (Ottosen Reservoir) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Montes, also known as Ottosen Reservoir, is a private water storage facility located in Uintah, Utah.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this reservoir serves primarily for irrigation purposes and was completed in 1963. With a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 94.67 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the area.

Situated along Montes Hollow, this earth dam structure stands at a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 21 feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Utah Division of Water Rights to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection in March 2018 showed no significant concerns, and the reservoir continues to provide vital water resources for the surrounding community.

Located within the jurisdiction of the state of Utah, Ottosen Reservoir is a key asset for water management in the region. With its strategic location and design, this reservoir not only supports irrigation needs but also contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in Uintah County. As climate change impacts water availability, reservoirs like Little Montes play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable water supply for agricultural activities and ecosystems alike.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

427

River Or Stream

MONTES HOLLOW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

7.1

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.