Harvard Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mothershead, R. Essinger Reservoir
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Harvard is a private water resource located in Circle, Montana, along the Redwater River.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this irrigation dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of irrigation, Harvard is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Harvard serves as a vital water source for agricultural activities in the area.
Situated in McCone County, Harvard is owned privately and operated for irrigation purposes. Its earth dam type and 200-foot length are key features that contribute to its water storage capacity and functionality. The dam's location at S15 18N 47E along the Redwater River highlights its strategic position in managing water resources for the surrounding agricultural lands. Although the dam has not been rated for its current condition, it continues to serve as a crucial water management structure in the region.
With a maximum storage capacity of 275 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 59 acre-feet, Harvard plays a significant role in supporting agricultural activities in the area. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with water resource management guidelines. As a vital infrastructure for irrigation, Harvard stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in Montana's agricultural landscape.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
REDWATER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
275 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Harvard