Gardner #2 (West Dam) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gardner #1 (East Dam) La Ze #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Gardner #2 (West Dam) is a privately owned earth dam located in Carter County, Montana, near Marmarth, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, harnessing water from Big Groat Creek for agricultural use. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 700 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 41 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Gardner #2 (West Dam) is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The dam has not undergone a formal condition assessment, but it meets the state's regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The last inspection was conducted in June 1997, and the dam has not been modified since its completion.
Located in Congressional District 00 of Montana, Gardner #2 (West Dam) is a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure. With its ability to store and release water for irrigation purposes, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Gardner #2 (West Dam) in managing water resources for sustainable agricultural practices in the area.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
BIG GROAT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
41 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
2.66 |
Nid Storage |
390 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Gardner #2 (West Dam)