Haughan #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Haughan #2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Terry, Montana, along Physic Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1973, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, Haughan #2 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is classified as having a low hazard potential.

Despite not being rated for its condition, Haughan #2 undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by state authorities. The dam has not been modified since its completion and is equipped with outlet gates for controlled water release. Located in a picturesque area of Custer County, Montana, this dam contributes to the local ecosystem by providing water resources for various uses while also serving as a potential emergency resource for fire protection.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Haughan #2 to be an interesting case study in sustainable water management in Montana. With a focus on fire protection and ecological enhancement, this dam showcases the importance of maintaining and regulating water infrastructure for multiple purposes while minimizing potential risks and hazards. The location along Physic Creek adds to the charm of this structure, highlighting the interconnectedness of water resources and environmental conservation in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

PHYSIC CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

68

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.