Austin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Austin #2 Hanson (Phillips)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Austin Dam, located in Hinsdale, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1953 for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Situated on Whitewater Creek, this dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 285 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is state regulated by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place.
The dam, owned by a private entity, serves multiple purposes while being a crucial water resource in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 84 acre-feet, Austin Dam plays a vital role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local wildlife. The dam's location in Phillips County, Montana, adds to its significance in the area, with a design focused on stability and longevity to ensure its effectiveness over time.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Austin Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure that contributes to the local ecosystem while serving practical purposes. With its historical completion in the mid-20th century and ongoing state regulation, this dam showcases the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for multiple needs. As a low hazard potential dam with a unique primary purpose, Austin Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
WHITEWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
285 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Austin Dam