Keeling Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Keeling is a privately owned earth dam located in Hill County, Montana, near the city of Havre.


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Summary

Completed in 1947, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and providing a small fish pond. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 300 feet, Keeling has a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 25 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Milk River, this low hazard potential dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential and current condition being rated as 'Not Rated,' the Keeling dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its location in a Congressional District represented by Greg Gianforte, the dam provides essential water for fire protection and livestock, while also supporting local fish populations. Although there is no designated emergency action plan (EAP) in place for Keeling, its risk assessment and management measures remain unspecified. The Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers does not have any involvement with this structure, indicating its independent operation and maintenance by private owners.

In the midst of a changing climate and increasing water scarcity concerns, dams like Keeling are essential for ensuring water availability for various uses. As a private entity, the owners of Keeling bear the responsibility of maintaining the dam's integrity and complying with state regulations. With its historical significance and continued contributions to water resource management, Keeling serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-MILK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

74

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.