Carter Ponds Rehabilitation
(2008) Tom Carter

• 2 ponds (Upper and Lower) constructed in 1938
• Original purpose was for irrigation/agriculture use
• Primary current purposes: Recreation, fishing, wildlife habitat, agricultural use, MFWP access site
• Dam Height: 22 feet (Lower), 17 feet (Upper)
• Dam Storage (acre-feet): 176 (Lower), 119(Upper)
• Dam Classification: Not High Hazard

The Carter Ponds have been rebuilt several times over their history due to the short lifespan of metal conduit.  In 2001, DNRC completed an assessment of the Carter Ponds and a hazard classification was established as “not high hazard”.  However, in 2004, the trickle tube at the lower Carter Pond collapsed and the conduit in the upper Carter Pond exhibited a slow failure due to conduit pipe corrosion.  DNRC recommended that the dams either be repaired or breached.  In 2006, it was determined to look for funding implementation for the project. After analysis and alternatives exploration, it was determined that a full rebuild of both dams was the preferred alternative.

• Replace principle spillway and operating conduits
• Rebuild dam crest
• Provide slope protection with riprap installation at dam face
• Provide toe drain for dam

The total cost of the project was $1.6 Million. To finance the project, the DNRC used the following grant and loan programs:The total cost of both projects was $430,635. To finance the project, Tom Carter and the project partners used the following grant programs and in-kind work:

• Montana FWP-Future Fisheries Grant - $106,000
  • Utilized future fisheries monies based on the preservation of a fishing resource
   
• DNRC RRGL Grant: $100,000
• NRCS, USFWS: $25,200
• North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) Small Grant: $75,000
  • Provided funding based on use of ponds by migratory birds for habitat management
• Ducks Unlimited: $85,000
  • Provided engineering for the project
   
• USFWS: $36,435 in-kind
  • Utilized for rock sourcing and placement
   
• Fergus Conservation District provided in-kind assistance consisting of grant writing

• Both projects were successfully completed in 2008 and the ponds were completely filled in 2010

 

Project Partners Owner:  Tom Carter, with assistance from MFWP

Engineer:  Ducks Unlimited

Contractor:  Martin Excavating LLC.