Sweet Pea Reservoir Report
Nearby: Vielleux, Joe Pollux
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sweet Pea is a private water resource located in LOMA, Chouteau County, Montana, specifically on the DRY FORK COULEE stream.
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Summary
Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 200 feet in length, providing essential functions for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. With a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet, Sweet Pea is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) to ensure proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes are in place.
Despite its low hazard potential, Sweet Pea's condition assessment remains unrated, and there is no information on its emergency action plan (EAP) preparedness or risk management measures. The dam's primary source agency is the state of Montana, and it falls under the jurisdiction of Congressional District 00. While Sweet Pea has not been modified in recent years, its location and purpose make it a vital water resource for local fire protection and agricultural needs. As a notable feature in the area, Sweet Pea contributes to the overall water management efforts within the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Sweet Pea to be an intriguing structure that serves multiple purposes while being regulated by state authorities. The dam's historical significance, dating back to 1940, underscores its importance in providing essential water storage for fire protection and agricultural activities in the region. With its low hazard potential and state-regulated status, Sweet Pea stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and the importance of maintaining infrastructure for the benefit of local communities.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
DRY FORK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
109 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4290cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3530cfs |
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.
Sweet Pea