Grabtak Reservoir Report

Nearby: Insanity Sam

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Grabtak is a private dam located in Blaine County, Montana, specifically in the city of Wagner.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 100 feet. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state agency.

Situated on TR-Harts Coulee, Grabtak serves as a vital resource for water management in the region, providing essential services such as fire protection and stock watering. With its low hazard potential and not yet rated condition assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential water-related risks. Although not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Grabtak remains a key infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in sustainable water management practices in Montana.

As a notable feature in the landscape of Blaine County, Grabtak offers a glimpse into the intersection of human-made structures and natural resources. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management and the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Grabtak presents a fascinating case study in the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental conservation in the realm of water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-HARTS COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.