Halverson Ranch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Halverson Ranch, located in Chouteau, Montana, is a privately owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 320 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Dry Fork Coulee and is regulated by the DNRC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Halverson Ranch poses a moderate risk due to its location and purpose. The spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 600 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for this structure is rated as moderate (3), highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard against potential hazards. Although the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," it is essential for the owners to undertake regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the integrity of the dam.

Halverson Ranch serves as a vital resource for fire protection, stock watering, and recreational fishing in the area. With its strategic location and key role in water management, this earth dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts and stakeholders alike can appreciate the significance of this structure in enhancing water security and resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

DRY FORK COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

1.56

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.