Galt #28 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Galt #28, located in Garfield, Montana, is a private water resource essential for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet, this earth dam on Day Coulee was completed in 1950 and serves as a reliable source of water in the region. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced to ensure its safe operation.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Galt #28 plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources in the area. With its strategic location in Forsyth and its proximity to the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam contributes to water management efforts in Montana. As a private facility, Galt #28 underscores the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both agricultural and environmental purposes, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term viability in the face of changing climate conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Galt #28 is essential in preserving and managing water resources effectively. With its historical significance, functional design, and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a valuable asset in the region's water management infrastructure. By recognizing the role of private entities in maintaining critical water resources, we can work towards sustainable solutions that address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the resilience of water systems for future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

DAY COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

93

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.