Kistner Hardy Dam

SOUTH FORK MUDDY CREEK· Gallatin, Montana· Built 1945· Earth· 20 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Kistner Hardy Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1945 and is 81 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 44.5% in MT)
Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage340 acre-ft
Normal Storage174 acre-ft
Year Completed1945 (81 years old)
NID IDMT03716

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 16, 2024
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DNRC

Ownership

RMW RANCH TRUST

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Kistner Hardy Dam?

Kistner Hardy Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Kistner Hardy Dam?

Kistner Hardy Dam is owned by RMW RANCH TRUST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Kistner Hardy Dam built?

Kistner Hardy Dam was completed in 1945, making it 81 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 Kistner Hardy Dam?

Kistner Hardy Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Kistner Hardy Dam?

Kistner Hardy Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Kistner Hardy Dam last inspected?

Kistner Hardy Dam was last inspected on January 16, 2024. 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.