Hutchison #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hutchison #2 is a private earth dam located in Miles City, Montana, on Dwyer Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet, this structure is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies.

Although not rated for its condition assessment, Hutchison #2 has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in good standing. The dam provides vital water resources for the surrounding area and contributes to the conservation and management of water in the region. With its location in a congressional district represented by Greg Gianforte, the dam is an essential part of the local infrastructure and plays a key role in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of climate change impacts.

As a significant feature in the Powder River County landscape, Hutchison #2 highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices and the critical role that private dams play in enhancing water security. With a focus on fire protection, livestock, and fish habitats, this dam represents a valuable resource for both human and ecological communities in the area. By adhering to state regulations and maintaining its integrity, Hutchison #2 exemplifies the potential for private dams to contribute positively to water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

DWYER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

59

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.