John Ragsdale Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Ragsdale Dam, located in Livingston, Montana, is a private dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1980, the earth dam stands at 19 feet high and spans 900 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. While its hazard potential is classified as low, the dam has not been officially rated for its condition.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), John Ragsdale Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and efficiency. The dam is situated offstream, contributing to the irrigation needs of the surrounding agricultural lands. Despite being a private structure, the dam serves a public purpose by supporting the local farming community and water supply.

With Congressman Greg Gianforte representing the area, the dam's role in water management and climate resilience is crucial for the sustainable development of Park County, Montana. As water resources become increasingly vital in the face of climate change, the John Ragsdale Dam stands as a testament to the importance of efficient water infrastructure for both agricultural and environmental sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.