Fresno Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fresno Reservoir, located in Havre, Montana, is a federal irrigation reservoir built in 1938 by the Bureau of Reclamation on the Milk River.


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Summary

With a dam height of 111 feet and a storage capacity of over 200,000 acre-feet, Fresno plays a crucial role in supplying water for agricultural irrigation in the region. The reservoir covers a surface area of 9043 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 62,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite its high hazard potential, Fresno Reservoir has a moderate risk assessment rating. The reservoir operates under the supervision of the Bureau of Reclamation, which is responsible for its regulation, inspection, and operation. The spillway, with a width of 210 feet, serves as the primary means of flood control during periods of high water levels. Although the condition assessment is currently unavailable, routine inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.

Fresno Reservoir is a vital water resource for the surrounding agricultural community, providing essential irrigation water for crops in the area. With its strategic location on the Milk River and its significant storage capacity, Fresno plays a key role in water management and conservation efforts in Hill County, Montana. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Fresno Reservoir an intriguing example of federal water infrastructure designed to support sustainable agriculture in the region.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

2070

Dam Height

111

River Or Stream

MILK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9043

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

2828

Nid Storage

229288

Structural Height

111

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

111
       
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.