Big (Toole) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Berkholder Dam Blair #1
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Big (Toole) is a privately owned dam located in Toole, Montana, specifically in the city of GALATA.
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Summary
Built in 1900 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 390 feet. The primary purposes of this dam are for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, serving a drainage area of 7.03 square miles along the KINYON COULEE.
With a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and a normal storage of 21 acre-feet, Big (Toole) has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway that is 40 feet wide and can discharge up to 100 cubic feet per second. Despite being state regulated by the DNRC and meeting state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big (Toole) offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical engineering practices of water management in Montana. Its unique design and purposes make it a valuable asset for fire protection and wildlife habitat in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both human and environmental needs.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
KINYON COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
7.03 |
Nid Storage |
105 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
253cfs |
Marias River Near Shelby Mt
|
1760cfs |
Milk River At Eastern Crossing Of Int Bndry
|
4cfs |
Cut Bank Creek At Cut Bank Mt
|
138cfs |
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
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.
Big (Toole)