Keep Cool Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Keep Cool is a private irrigation dam located on Keep Cool Creek in Meagher, Montana.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1950 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 342 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

Despite being rated as "Significant" in terms of hazard potential, Keep Cool has not been assessed for its current condition. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in October 1993, highlighting the need for updated safety evaluations to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the structure. With a spillway width of 30 feet, the dam is designed to manage potential overflow and protect downstream areas from flooding.

Located in Congressional District 00, Montana, Keep Cool plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition of dams like Keep Cool to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable use of water for irrigation and other purposes.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

KEEP COOL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

6.88

Nid Storage

342

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.