Ward Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tuff Retention Dam Eddie #2
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Ward Dam, located in Nashua, Montana, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
Completed in 2003, this gravity dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the Porcupine Creek and Missouri River. With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, Ward Dam has a capacity of 849 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 130.87 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Ward Dam is subject to a moderate risk level and undergoes inspections every five years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 36 feet, ensuring water flow during peak discharge events. With its primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats, Ward Dam contributes to the ecological diversity of the area while also serving as a recreational spot for enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability.
Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience will find Ward Dam to be a captivating site that showcases the intersection of environmental conservation and infrastructure development. With its unique design elements, operational features, and ecological significance, Ward Dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with the preservation of natural habitats. Visitors can appreciate the beauty of this structure while learning about the efforts taken by federal agencies to ensure its safety and functionality for both wildlife and the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
1410 |
River Or Stream |
PORCUPINE CK./MISSOURI RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
130.87 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
849 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ward Dam