Hungry Horse Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hungry Horse is a federal-owned dam located in Flathead, Montana, along the South Fork Flathead River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1952 by the Bureau of Reclamation, it stands at an impressive 564 feet in height and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and irrigation. With a maximum storage capacity of 3,588,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's high hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. While its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," the Bureau of Reclamation is responsible for overseeing its regulation, inspection, and operation to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. Hungry Horse Dam provides valuable flood control measures and water storage capacity, contributing to the overall management of the surrounding drainage area and ecosystem.

The dam's location in the Seattle District and association with the Bureau of Reclamation highlight its significance in water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, structures like Hungry Horse play a vital role in mitigating risks and providing essential services to the surrounding communities. The dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing water resources for multiple benefits while also emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term viability.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

2115

Dam Height

564

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK FLATHEAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

24100

Hydraulic Height

525

Drainage Area

1640

Nid Storage

3588000

Structural Height

564

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

564
       
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.