Deep Can Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deep Can is a private irrigation dam located in Chouteau, Montana, along the TR-Can Coulee river.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 139 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and its condition is currently rated as "Not Rated."

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Deep Can is an essential water resource structure that supports agricultural irrigation in the region. The dam's location in Teton County makes it a key component of the local water management infrastructure, providing vital water supply for crop cultivation in the area. With state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and integrity.

As a significant water management asset in Montana, Deep Can plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural activities in the region. With its solid construction and low hazard potential, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of irrigation effectively. The cooperation between private ownership and state regulation ensures that Deep Can remains a reliable and essential resource for water users in Chouteau and surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-CAN COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

220

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.