Hillbilly Reservoir Report
Nearby: Drabbels Olson #2 (Phillips)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hillbilly is a privately owned dam located in Malta, Montana along the Morton Coulee River.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance. Despite its age, Hillbilly is classified as having a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
Owned and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Hillbilly is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. It stands as a vital resource for the local community, providing essential water storage for various needs. The dam's location in a remote area of Phillips County underscores its importance for maintaining water resources in a region susceptible to climate variability.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hillbilly represents a unique case study in dam infrastructure management and the intersection of water resource utilization and climate resilience. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, its role in providing water storage for fire protection and agricultural purposes highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. By understanding the regulatory framework and operational considerations of dams like Hillbilly, enthusiasts can gain insight into the complexities of safeguarding water resources in a constantly evolving environment.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
75 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
MORTON COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Hillbilly