E Hardy #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

E Hardy #2 is a private irrigation dam located in Custer, Montana, along the Monarch Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at 20 feet in height and spans 250 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 186 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state inspection, enforcement, and permitting in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated in a low hazard area, E Hardy #2 serves primarily for irrigation purposes, drawing water from Monarch Creek to support agricultural activities in the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, the dam contributes to water resource management in the region. Despite its age, the condition of the dam has not been rated yet, and there is no information available on recent inspections or emergency action plans.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, E Hardy #2 presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation dam in Montana. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the role of dams in supporting agriculture and water management efforts. As discussions around water security and climate resilience continue to evolve, understanding the intricacies of structures like E Hardy #2 becomes increasingly important for sustainable resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

MONARCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

186

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.