Harvey Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harvey Lake, located in Teton County, Montana, is a privately-owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1941, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 1863 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1144 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 114 acres and is fed by the Farmers Canal.

Despite being privately owned, Harvey Lake is subject to state regulation, with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." The reservoir does not have an emergency action plan (EAP) in place, and risk assessment and management measures are not specified.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Harvey Lake can appreciate its historical significance as an essential irrigation source in the region. The reservoir's location within the Omaha District and its association with the Congressional District of Montana offer insights into the broader water management and regulatory framework. With its substantial storage capacity and potential for agricultural impact, Harvey Lake serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resource management, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship in the state of Montana.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

FARMERS CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

114

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

1863

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

26
       
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.