Hemund Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hemund, also known as Dogtown Sewer, is a private water resource structure located in Sappington, Montana.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes with a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 173 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Situated in the Madison County of Montana, Hemund is a significant water resource with a hazard potential categorized as 'Significant'. Despite not having a formal condition assessment rating, the dam has not been modified or rated in recent years. With a maximum discharge capability of 300 cubic feet per second, Hemund plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and supporting irrigation activities. As a key infrastructure for water supply and management, Hemund is an essential component of the local water system and contributes to the sustainable use of water resources in the region.

Owned and operated privately, Hemund stands as an important irrigation structure in the area, providing vital water storage and management capabilities. With its strategic location and function in the Dogtown Sewer system, Hemund plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and ensuring water availability for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Hemund is essential for promoting sustainable water practices and preserving the integrity of our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

DOGTOWN SEWER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

173

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.