Ferris Farms Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ferris Farms, located in Teton County, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation dam on Gamble Coulee.
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Summary
Built in 1949 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 682 feet, providing a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential, the dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, supporting agriculture in the region.
Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ferris Farms is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Although its condition is currently not rated, the dam's design and construction meet state guidelines, ensuring its safety and functionality for water resource management. With a maximum discharge capacity of 300 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 100 feet, Ferris Farms plays a crucial role in water distribution for agricultural activities in the area.
As a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Teton County, Ferris Farms contributes to the sustainable use of water for irrigation purposes. With its historical significance dating back to 1949, the dam continues to support the local agricultural community while adhering to state regulations and safety standards. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Ferris Farms in maintaining a balance between water supply and demand in the region, ensuring the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
682 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
GAMBLE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
20.31 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
Sun River At Simms Mt
|
1620cfs |
Sun River Bl Willow Cr Nr Augusta Mt
|
116cfs |
Teton River Bl South Fork Nr Choteau Mt
|
44cfs |
Muddy Creek At Vaughn Mt
|
86cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |
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.
Ferris Farms