Harfo Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Harfo is a privately owned earth dam located in Richland County, Montana, specifically in the city of Blair.


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Summary

Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, Harfo plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area by providing a reliable source of water for various uses.

Situated along the TR-Missouri River, Harfo has a low hazard potential and is regulated by the state agency DNRC. The dam has a spillway width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 500 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safe release of excess water during heavy rainfall events. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, Harfo continues to be inspected, maintained, and operated in compliance with state regulations, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the local community and environment.

As a key infrastructure for water management and conservation in the region, Harfo represents a vital link in the broader network of dams and reservoirs that contribute to water security and climate resilience. With its strategic location, multiple functions, and state-regulated operations, Harfo stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private and public entities in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-MISSOURI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.52

Nid Storage

76

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.