Hilldale Colony Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hilldale Colony, located in Hill, Montana, is a privately owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Sage Creek, this structure serves as a crucial resource for water management in the area, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second. The surrounding drainage area is approximately 5.11 square miles, providing essential water storage for the region. Despite its importance, the dam's condition is currently unrated, and it has not undergone recent inspections. With its strategic location and purpose, Hilldale Colony represents a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices in Montana.

Located in a picturesque setting near Havre, Hilldale Colony offers a glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources. Managed by the DNRC, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various purposes while also posing a moderate risk that requires ongoing monitoring and management. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and safeguarding structures like Hilldale Colony becomes increasingly vital for ensuring the resilience of local communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-SAGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

5.11

Nid Storage

94

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.