Kesterson #2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kesterson #1 Big Timber #4
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kesterson #2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Hysham, Montana, along Muggins Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1949 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 2000 feet, Kesterson #2 has a storage capacity of 246 acre-feet and a drainage area of 17.19 square miles.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating, Kesterson #2 is state regulated and inspected regularly by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC). The dam is designed to have uncontrolled spillways and is located in a relatively remote area with limited associated structures. While the condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," the dam is considered to meet safety guidelines and poses no immediate threat to downstream communities.
Overall, Kesterson #2 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area by providing essential services for fire protection and agriculture. Its strategic location on Muggins Creek contributes to the overall ecosystem health and water availability for the surrounding area, making it an important asset for both the local community and the broader climate and water resource enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
MUGGINS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
17.19 |
Nid Storage |
246 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Kesterson #2