Potter (Toole) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mclean (Toole) Rocky Mountain High
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Potter (Toole) is a privately owned earth dam located in Shelby, Montana, along Potter Coulee.
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Summary
Built in 1880 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, this historic structure stands at 12 feet in height with a length of 300 feet. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, Potter (Toole) serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Under the jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Potter (Toole) is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safe operation. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam with a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the structure's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unspecified. As a focal point for water resource enthusiasts, Potter (Toole) presents an opportunity for further exploration and evaluation of its environmental impact and sustainability.
Highlighted by its significance in the Omaha District and Congressional District 00 of Montana, Potter (Toole) stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and historical preservation. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, understanding the role of structures like Potter (Toole) in maintaining water security and resilience becomes increasingly crucial for both the local community and broader conservation efforts. With its rich history and functional purpose, Potter (Toole) offers a captivating glimpse into the intricate relationship between water resources and sustainable development.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
POTTER COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Potter (Toole)