Hauser Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hauser Dam, located in Craig, Montana, is a gravity dam built in 1911 primarily for hydroelectric purposes on the Missouri River.


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Summary

With a height of 125 feet and a length of 732 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 139,890 acre-feet and serves multiple functions including flood risk reduction and recreation. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and has a high hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 443 feet and is equipped with various outlet gates for water control. Despite its age, the condition assessment of Hauser Dam is not available, indicating a need for further inspection and evaluation. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in December 2020, and the risk management measures are not specified, suggesting a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety and resilience of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the engineering and environmental aspects of dams will find Hauser Dam a fascinating subject of study. Its historical significance, strategic location on the Missouri River, and multi-purpose design make it a valuable asset for both energy production and water management in the region. However, the high hazard potential and limited information on its condition assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this critical infrastructure.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

732

Dam Height

125

River Or Stream

Missouri River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

5970

Hydraulic Height

120

Drainage Area

16876

Nid Storage

139890

Structural Height

125

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 19, Slide (sluice gate) - 20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

125
       
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.