Martinsdale Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Martinsdale, North Dam is a significant water resource structure located in Two Dot, Montana, along the TR-Musselshell River.


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Summary

Built in 1939, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes and stands at an impressive height of 91 feet with a length of 1000 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 38,958 acre-feet, making it a vital component of water management in the region.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the Martinsdale, North Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment is deemed satisfactory following the most recent inspection in March 2021. With a drainage area of 15.7 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1060 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water supply and flood control in the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Martinsdale, North Dam a fascinating structure to study, given its historical significance, engineering design, and impact on the local ecosystem. As a key irrigation facility in Wheatland County, Montana, the dam not only supports agricultural activities but also contributes to water storage, flood protection, and overall water management strategies in the region. Monitoring and maintaining the dam's integrity are essential to ensure its continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource demands.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

91

River Or Stream

TR-MUSSELSHELL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

985

Hydraulic Height

91

Drainage Area

15.7

Nid Storage

38958

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

91
       
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.