Tree Coulee Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Seven Tree Dam Billing Spring #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Tree Coulee Dam, located in Garfield, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1950 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 18 feet and with a length of 175 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and a low hazard potential. The dam is situated on the Tree Coulee stream and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite its modest size and purpose, Tree Coulee Dam plays a vital role in providing water resources for fire protection and agricultural needs in the region. The dam's location in a rural area underscores its significance in maintaining water security and managing the ecosystem. With the primary owner being private, the dam reflects the community's commitment to sustainable water management practices and ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment.
As a part of the Omaha District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Tree Coulee Dam demonstrates the collaboration between private owners and federal agencies in safeguarding water resources. Although the dam is not rated for its condition and lacks certain updated emergency preparedness measures, its presence signifies a proactive approach towards water conservation and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TREE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Tree Coulee Dam