Phantom Coulee Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Little Phantom Deuteronomy
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Phantom Coulee Reservoir, located in Chouteau, Montana, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
Constructed in 1906 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a storage capacity of 756 acre-feet. The reservoir's primary source agency is the state of Montana, with regulatory oversight from the DNRC, ensuring that state permitting, inspection, and enforcement are in place to maintain its safety and functionality.
With a significant hazard potential, Phantom Coulee Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. It serves as a vital resource for fire protection and livestock watering, contributing to the sustainability of local agriculture and wildlife habitats. The reservoir's location along the Phantom Coulee stream in VIRGELLE, Montana, highlights its strategic importance in managing water resources for both human and ecological needs.
As an essential water infrastructure, Phantom Coulee Reservoir continues to play a key role in the region's water supply and management. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the reservoir stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resources in sustaining communities and ecosystems. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Phantom Coulee Reservoir to be a captivating example of human ingenuity and stewardship in harnessing and preserving essential natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
PHANTOM COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
22.97 |
Nid Storage |
756 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Judith River Nr Mouth
|
368cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4820cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3620cfs |
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.
Phantom Coulee Reservoir