Harbaugh Reservoir Report
Nearby: Harbaugh #3 Harbaugh,C.
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Garfield County, Montana, the Harbaugh, D.
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Summary
dam stands as a critical infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond. Completed in 1947, this earth dam has a height of 26 feet and a length of 315 feet, with a storage capacity of 199 acre-feet. Situated on Sand Creek, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water resources in the area, with a drainage area of 2.03 square miles and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the Harbaugh, D. dam is regulated by the DNRC and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam continues to serve its primary purposes effectively. The spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is uncontrolled, adding to the dam's unique features that cater to its various functionalities. As a private-owned structure, the Harbaugh, D. dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts in water resource management in Montana.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the strategic location and design of the Harbaugh, D. dam, which not only supports fire protection and livestock needs but also contributes to the ecological diversity of the area through its small fish pond function. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this earth dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices. As the dam continues to be monitored and regulated by state agencies, it remains a key player in ensuring water security in Garfield County, Montana, highlighting the importance of maintaining and investing in essential water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
315 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
2.03 |
Nid Storage |
199 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Harbaugh, D.