Hanson Reservoir Dam

WOODS GULCH CREEK· Meagher, Montana· Built 1932· Earth· 13 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Hanson Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1932 and is 94 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 14.7% in MT)
Dam Length477 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage240 acre-ft
Normal Storage84 acre-ft
Surface Area28 acres
Drainage Area29 sq mi
Max Discharge470 cfs
Year Completed1932 (94 years old)
NID IDMT03207

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: March 1, 1981
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DNRC

Ownership

ELMER HANSON

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hanson Reservoir Dam?

Hanson Reservoir Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Hanson Reservoir Dam?

Hanson Reservoir Dam is owned by ELMER HANSON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hanson Reservoir Dam built?

Hanson Reservoir Dam was completed in 1932, making it 94 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Hanson Reservoir Dam?

Hanson Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Hanson Reservoir Dam?

Hanson Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 13 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Hanson Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Hanson Reservoir Dam was last inspected on March 1, 1981. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.