Murnion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Murnion Dam, located in Garfield County, Montana, is a private-owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This earthen dam, standing at a height of 22.5 feet with a storage capacity of 284 acre-feet, plays a crucial role in water management for the surrounding area. Situated on Santo Arroyo Creek, the dam helps regulate water flow and provides essential water resources for agricultural activities.

Managed and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Murnion Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of its condition assessment. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections or maintenance activities, it continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. The structure's location and design contribute to its overall functionality and importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting irrigation needs in the region.

As a significant feature in the water resource infrastructure of Montana, Murnion Dam represents a vital component in the state's water management strategy. While further assessments and updates may be necessary to ensure its long-term effectiveness and safety, the dam remains a key asset for the community and a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates and increasing water demands.

Dam Length

1090

Dam Height

22.5

River Or Stream

SANTO ARROYO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25.5

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Drainage Area

17.67

Nid Storage

284

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.