Gardner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gardner Dam, located in Fort Peck, Montana, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in irrigation in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-DRY BLOOD CREEK, the dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the area, contributing to agricultural activities and ensuring water availability for the local community.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Gardner Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite its relatively small size and capacity, the dam serves as a reliable water source for irrigation purposes, supporting the agricultural sector in Petroleum County. With state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, Gardner Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement actions to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding area.

Although lacking detailed information on emergency preparedness and risk assessment measures, Gardner Dam remains a significant asset for water resource management in Montana. As a part of the larger water infrastructure network in the region, this dam contributes to the sustainable use of water resources and plays a crucial role in addressing the water needs of the local community. As climate change continues to impact water availability and management, structures like Gardner Dam will be essential for ensuring a reliable water supply for agricultural and community use in the future.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

623

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-DRY BLOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

103

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.