J Hardy #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

J Hardy #2 is a private earth dam located in Montana, specifically in Custer County near the city of Mizpah.


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Summary

Built in 1966, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 900 feet, J Hardy #2 has a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 32 acre-feet.

Situated on the TR-Mizpah Creek, this low hazard potential dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its last inspection date and frequency are unknown. Despite these uncertainties, J Hardy #2 provides valuable water resource management functions for the surrounding area, contributing to water supply for fire protection, livestock watering, and small-scale fisheries.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, J Hardy #2 offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resource management. This earth dam not only provides essential services for local communities but also highlights the importance of proper regulatory oversight and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and monitoring structures like J Hardy #2 will be crucial in adapting to changing environmental conditions and ensuring the resilience of water systems in Montana.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-MIZPAH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

74

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.