Cope Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sagebrush #3 Fergus #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cope is a privately owned dam located in Fergus County, Montana, along the Crooked Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, Cope stands at a height of 16 feet with a length of 600 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance.
Situated in a remote area with no designated town nearby, Cope serves as a crucial water resource for the local community, supporting both agricultural and recreational activities in the region. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk level highlight the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the safety of downstream areas. Despite its low hazard potential, Cope's strategic location along the Crooked Creek underscores its significance in providing essential water storage for fire protection and livestock management in the surrounding area.
As a part of the Omaha District within Congressional District 00 of Montana, Cope plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its earth dam structure and regulated state jurisdiction, the dam exemplifies the collaboration between private ownership and state agencies in maintaining critical water infrastructure for multiple purposes. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and supporting the sustainable operation of dams like Cope is essential for ensuring the resilience and long-term viability of water systems in Montana and beyond.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CROOKED CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1.72 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River Near Landusky Mt
|
9100cfs |
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Peoples Creek Near Hays Mt
|
4cfs |
Musselshell River At Mosby Mt
|
12cfs |
Flatwillow Creek Near Mosby Mt
|
17cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
JAMES KIPP RECREATION AREA
|
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James Kipp
|
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James Kipp Recreation Area - UMRBNM
|
Cope