Hays Reservoir Report
Nearby: Claribell #5 Buffalo Hill
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hays is a private irrigation dam located in Garfield County, Montana, along the TR-WOODY CREEK river.
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Summary
Built in 1957, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 575 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet for agricultural purposes. The dam is owned and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Hays serves a vital role in supporting the local agricultural community by providing irrigation water. The dam is not associated with any federal agencies and has not undergone recent inspections or assessments related to emergency preparedness or risk management. Located in a remote area with no designated town nearby, Hays represents a critical piece of water infrastructure in the region, ensuring reliable water supply for farmers in the area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the presence of dams like Hays highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. Understanding the regulatory framework and maintenance needs of structures like Hays is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of water resources in Montana and beyond. By staying informed and engaged with local water infrastructure projects, enthusiasts can advocate for responsible water policies that support both human needs and environmental resilience in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WOODY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nelson Creek Near Van Norman Mt
|
33cfs |
Milk River At Nashua Mt
|
233cfs |
Milk River At Tampico Mt
|
123cfs |
Redwater River At Circle Mt
|
1cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hays