Alley Oop Reservoir Report
Nearby: Isaac Frye #3 Veseth Reservoir
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Alley Oop, also known as Emond Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Saco, Montana, along the Colburn Coulee.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1957, this earth-type dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet for purposes such as fire protection, livestock, and small fish ponds. Despite being regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Alley Oop has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
Situated in Phillips County, Alley Oop serves as a vital water resource for the local community and plays a crucial role in providing essential services for fire protection and agricultural needs. With its strategic location in a rural area, this dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region, ensuring a reliable water supply for various purposes. Although the dam has not been fully assessed for condition and emergency preparedness, its low hazard potential and regulated status indicate a stable and secure infrastructure for water storage and management.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Alley Oop is essential in appreciating the interconnectedness of water management, environmental sustainability, and community resilience. With its historical construction and ongoing regulatory oversight, this private-owned dam serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure for the benefit of both humans and the environment. By recognizing the role of Alley Oop in providing essential resources and services, we can work towards a more sustainable and secure water future for all.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
COLBURN COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Alley Oop