Harbaugh Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Harbaugh,C.


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Summary

is a privately owned water structure located in Garfield, Montana, specifically on TR-SAND CREEK. Constructed in 1939 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 80 feet. With a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond, it has a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.19 square miles.

Managed by the DNRC, Harbaugh,C. is regulated and permitted by the state of Montana. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Despite not having a formal condition assessment, the structure is regularly inspected, with enforcement and emergency preparedness measures in place. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harbaugh,C. serves as a fascinating case study in sustainable water management and infrastructure development. Its historical significance, coupled with its practical applications in fire protection and ecological preservation, make it a valuable asset in the region. With proper regulatory oversight and risk management measures in place, this earth dam continues to play a critical role in maintaining water security and environmental resilience in Garfield, Montana.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-SAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

2.19

Nid Storage

192

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.