Sheffels Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sheffels Reservoir, located in Fort Benton, Montana, is a private water resource managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).


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Summary

Built in 1963, the reservoir serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. With a dam height of 68 feet and a storage capacity of 299 acre-feet, Sheffels Reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for various needs in the area.

Situated on the TR-Missouri River, Sheffels Reservoir covers a surface area that supports a low hazard potential with a condition assessment that is currently not rated. While the reservoir has not been inspected recently, it is regulated by the state and meets all necessary permitting and enforcement requirements. With its close proximity to the river and its importance for the local community, Sheffels Reservoir remains a key component in ensuring water availability and management in Cascade County, Montana.

Although not owned or funded by any federal agency, Sheffels Reservoir is recognized as a valuable resource for water storage and conservation in the region. As a private facility with state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, the reservoir serves as a critical infrastructure for water supply and management, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and effective stewardship in addressing the water resource challenges posed by climate change.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

68

River Or Stream

TR-MISSOURI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

68

Nid Storage

299

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

68
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.