Newhouse Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Newhouse Reservoir, located in Dodson, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1930, this reservoir has a dam height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 474 acre-feet. Situated on Maggie's Creek, it serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding agricultural community in Blaine County.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Newhouse Reservoir is regulated and inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this reservoir has been a reliable water source for nearly a century. Despite not having an emergency action plan in place, the reservoir continues to support irrigation activities in the region.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and contributing to the sustainable use of water resources in the area, Newhouse Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of water management in the face of changing climate conditions. With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting agriculture, this reservoir remains a key feature in the local water infrastructure of Montana.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

MAGGIES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

474

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.