Hanson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Allie Glasgow Sewage Lagoon
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Hanson is a private irrigation dam located in Valley County, Montana, specifically in Glasgow along the TR-East Fork Cherry Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 19 feet high with a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a length of 304 feet. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.24 square miles, Hanson serves as a vital water resource for agricultural purposes in the region.
Managed by the DNRC, Hanson has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet state regulations and undergo regular inspections. While there are no associated structures or emergency action plans in place, Hanson remains a key component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential irrigation water to the surrounding area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Hanson to be a fascinating example of human engineering and water management in Montana.
For those interested in water resource management and the impact of dams on local ecosystems, Hanson presents a case study in the balance between agricultural needs and environmental concerns. With a maximum discharge capacity of 350 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 70 feet, the dam has the capability to handle significant water flow while minimizing the risk of flooding downstream. As climate change continues to affect water availability and precipitation patterns, understanding the role of dams like Hanson in water storage and distribution becomes increasingly important for sustainable water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
304 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-EAST FORK CHERRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1.24 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Hanson