M Hardy #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

M Hardy #3 is a privately-owned irrigation dam located in the beautiful state of Montana, specifically in Custer County near the city of Mizpah.


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Summary

Built in 1958 on Dawson Creek, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 858 feet, providing essential water storage for irrigation purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 90 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), M Hardy #3 has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and currently holds a "Not Rated" condition assessment. While specific inspection dates and frequency are not provided, the dam is subject to state regulations and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unknown, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of preparedness for unforeseen events.

Located within Congressional District 00 and under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, M Hardy #3 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in sustaining agricultural activities in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this dam's history and operational details intriguing, highlighting the intricate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in Montana's landscape.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

858

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

DAWSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

90

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.