Halvor #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Halvor #1 is a historic earth dam located in Malta, Montana, completed in 1917 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

This private dam on TR-Four Mile Coulee stands at 14 feet high and spans 250 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Despite its age, Halvor #1 has a low hazard potential and has not been officially rated for its condition. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Situated in Phillips County, Halvor #1 is owned by a private entity and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Montana. This dam plays a crucial role in water resource management, particularly for fire protection and agricultural needs in the region. With its location in a picturesque setting and its historical significance, Halvor #1 serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure for both practical and conservation purposes. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems.

While Halvor #1 may not be as well-known as larger dams, its role in providing essential water services to the local community should not be overlooked. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, understanding and preserving structures like Halvor #1 become increasingly vital. With its unique design and purpose, Halvor #1 stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of early water management practices in Montana, making it a valuable site for those interested in the intersection of history, water resources, and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-FOUR MILE COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

88

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.