Sibra Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sibra, located in Chouteau, Montana, is a privately owned irrigation dam designed by USDA NRCS and regulated by the DNRC.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this Earth-type dam stands at 17 feet high and spans 2570 feet, serving the primary purpose of irrigation along TR-Little Sandy Creek. With a capacity of 235 acre-feet and a drainage area of 8.78 square miles, Sibra plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Despite its age, Sibra has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam features a spillway width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 450 cubic feet per second. While it has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, it remains under state jurisdiction with permitting, inspection, and enforcement responsibilities falling under the DNRC. With its strategic location and vital role in providing water for irrigation, Sibra stands as a significant infrastructure contributing to the sustainable management of water resources in Montana.

As a noteworthy feature in the landscape of Hole-in-the-Wall Landing Rec in Montana, Sibra represents a blend of historical significance and functional utility in water resource management. With its long-standing presence and critical role in supporting agricultural activities, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in ensuring water security and climate resilience in the region. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates continue to recognize the interplay between dams like Sibra and the broader environmental context, efforts to monitor and maintain its integrity will be essential in safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

2570

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

8.78

Nid Storage

235

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.