Hanson Coulee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Creedman Coulee Dam Sassy Top Deck
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hanson Coulee, located in Chinook, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1930 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 388 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
Situated on TR-Creedman Coulee, Hanson Coulee plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources in Hill County, Montana. The dam's primary function is to provide essential water supplies for fire protection and livestock, as well as support small-scale fisheries in the area. With a drainage area of 30 miles and a maximum storage capacity of 388 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital water management infrastructure in the region.
Owned and operated by a private entity, Hanson Coulee demonstrates the importance of local stewardship in managing water resources and adapting to climate challenges. With a focus on maintaining the dam's structural integrity and ensuring its continued functionality, the owners work closely with state regulators to meet inspection and enforcement requirements. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Hanson Coulee lies in its contribution to sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CREEDMAN COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
388 |
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.
Hanson Coulee