Macdonalds Farm Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Loma, Montana, Macdonalds Farm Reservoir is a privately owned earth dam built in 1930 for irrigation purposes along the Dugout Coulee.


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Summary

With a height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, this reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the area. Managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and efficiency.

Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Macdonalds Farm Reservoir remains a key water resource for the region. Its normal storage capacity of 26 acre-feet and maximum storage of 72 acre-feet provide a reliable water supply for irrigation needs. While lacking in detailed risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures, the reservoir serves as a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the sustainability of agricultural activities in Chouteau County.

With its historical significance and functional importance, Macdonalds Farm Reservoir stands as a testament to the engineering efforts of the past. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of such structures become increasingly crucial. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the role of reservoirs like Macdonalds Farm in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

DUGOUT COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.