Aster Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Aster is a state-regulated irrigation dam located in Galata, Montana, along the Willow Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 25 acre-feet. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been rated, indicating a need for further assessment.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Aster serves as a crucial water resource for agricultural purposes in the region. With its strategic location and historical significance, the dam plays a vital role in sustaining irrigation activities in Toole County. Although the dam has not been inspected recently, its compliance with state regulatory standards ensures its continued operation for water management in the area.

As a part of the infrastructure supporting water resources in Montana, Aster represents a key component in the state's water management strategy. With its modest size and purposeful design, the dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining and assessing irrigation structures to ensure the safety and efficiency of water storage and distribution systems. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Aster serves as a notable example of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural resource management in the context of sustainable water usage.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

95

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.