D G Orchowski #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: D S Scott #2 D G Orchowski #2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
D G Orchowski #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Hardin, Montana, on the TR-Little Bighorn River.
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Summary
Built in 1963 for irrigation purposes, the dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state.
Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, D G Orchowski #1 plays a vital role in supporting agricultural activities in the region. The dam's location in Big Horn County, Montana, within Congressional District 00, under the representation of Greg Gianforte (R), highlights the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the area. With a distance of 10 miles from the city of Hardin, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water storage and irrigation.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate can appreciate the significance of D G Orchowski #1 as a key component of the local water infrastructure. Its role in supporting agricultural activities, regulated by the state and with a low hazard potential, underscores the importance of proper management and maintenance of such structures for sustainable water supply in the region. The dam's historical significance, dating back to 1963, and its connection to the TR-Little Bighorn River further highlight its importance in the broader context of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Montana.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE BIGHORN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
D G Orchowski #1