Kesterson #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kesterson #1 is a privately owned dam located in Rosebud, Montana, near the city of Hysham.


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Summary

Built in 1915, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet, Kesterson #1 is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety.

Situated on TR-Muggins Creek, Kesterson #1 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an emergency action plan (EAP) in place. Despite its small size and relatively low risk, Kesterson #1 plays a vital role in providing water for firefighting, livestock, and recreational fishing in the surrounding area.

As a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region, Kesterson #1 serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure the safety of both the environment and local communities. With its historical significance and ongoing role in supporting various activities, Kesterson #1 represents a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-MUGGINS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

128

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.