Sour Apple Reservoir Report
Nearby: Good Ol West Vielleux, Joe
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sour Apple is a privately owned dam located in Fort Benton, Montana, along the West Dry Fork Coulee.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Sour Apple is regulated and inspected by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Sour Apple provides essential services while posing minimal risks to the surrounding environment and communities. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks specific details on inspection frequency and emergency action plans, its overall operational status is sound. Located in a picturesque area of Chouteau County, Sour Apple contributes to water resource management in the region, supporting various needs such as firefighting efforts and agricultural activities.
Overall, Sour Apple serves as a vital infrastructure component in the water resource management system of Montana, providing necessary services in a safe and reliable manner. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the key details of this dam's design, purpose, and regulatory oversight can offer valuable insights into the broader challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate. By staying informed about the status and functioning of structures like Sour Apple, enthusiasts can contribute to ongoing discussions and efforts to ensure sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
WEST DRY FORK COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
Missouri River Near Great Falls Mt
|
3530cfs |
Lake Creek Near Power Mt
|
30cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
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.
Sour Apple