Perigee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Apogee Couch Coulee #3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Perigee is a private dam located in Chinook, Montana, along the Staton Coulee river.
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Summary
Completed in 1935, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high and has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, primarily used for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Perigee is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite being a privately owned structure, Perigee is subject to state jurisdiction, regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, highlighting its importance in water resource management in the region. Located in Hill County, Montana, Perigee plays a crucial role in providing necessary water resources for various purposes while also serving as a potential emergency resource in case of disasters. With its primary purpose being fire protection, the dam contributes to the overall water resource infrastructure in the area.
As a part of the Omaha District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Perigee serves as a key element in the water management system along the Staton Coulee river, ensuring water availability for various needs in the region. With a long history of service since its construction in the 1930s, Perigee continues to be a vital asset for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in Montana.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
STATON COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Perigee