Hanson Co #5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hanson CO #5, also known as Schiffer Reservoir, is a private irrigation dam located in Rosebud County, Montana.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1949 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 175 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. Situated along TR-Little Porcupine Creek, this dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Hanson CO #5 plays a crucial role in providing irrigation water for the surrounding agricultural lands. With a normal storage capacity of 29 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 700 cubic feet per second, this dam helps support the local farming community by ensuring a reliable water supply for crop irrigation. While there are no associated structures or emergency action plans in place for this dam, its presence serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Rosebud County, Montana, Hanson CO #5 represents the intersection of water resource management and agricultural sustainability. With its historical significance dating back to 1949 and its continued importance for irrigation purposes, this private dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that water resources play in supporting local communities and economies. By adhering to state regulations and undergoing regular inspections, Hanson CO #5 exemplifies the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of water infrastructure in the region.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE PORCUPINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.78

Nid Storage

55

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.