Kistner Hardy Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Kistner Hardy Dam, located in Gallatin, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Constructed in 1945, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet. Situated on the South Fork Muddy Creek, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is classified as having a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of April 2022.

Despite its age, Kistner Hardy Dam continues to play a vital role in the region's water resource management, providing essential services to the surrounding community. However, its poor condition and high hazard potential highlight the need for regular inspection, maintenance, and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. With its strategic location and historical significance, the dam holds promise for further development and enhancement to meet evolving climate and water resource challenges in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kistner Hardy Dam presents an intriguing case study of the intersection between infrastructure, environmental protection, and community resilience. Its location in the picturesque landscape of Montana's Gallatin County, along with its multifaceted purposes and historical significance, make it a focal point for understanding the complexities and opportunities inherent in managing water resources in a changing climate. By exploring the challenges and potential solutions associated with this dam, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the broader issues facing water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK MUDDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

340

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.