Scott Coulee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Scott Coulee Dam, located in Hill, Montana, serves as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Scott Coulee river.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 58 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 3,570 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 1,330 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, ensuring the safety and protection of the surrounding areas from potential inundation.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Scott Coulee Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, providing a sense of security to the community it serves. With a designated emergency action plan and contact procedures in place, the dam is well-prepared to handle any unforeseen events and mitigate risks effectively.

Scott Coulee Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Montana. Its strategic location, design, and operational measures highlight the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As a key component in the region's flood risk reduction strategy, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting lives, property, and the environment, showcasing the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship in water resource management.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1700

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

SCOTT COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

53

Nid Storage

3570

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

58
       
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.