Node Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Node, located in Loma, Montana, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1936 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at 20 feet high with a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Situated on the Dugout Coulee river, Node is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring its safe operation.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Node serves as a crucial water resource in Chouteau County, Montana. Despite lacking a designated emergency action plan and updated risk assessment, the dam remains a vital asset for irrigation, fire protection, and wildlife habitat in the region. The presence of Node highlights the importance of proper management and maintenance of water infrastructure to mitigate potential risks and ensure sustainable water resource utilization for the community.

As a key structure in the Omaha District, Node plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and water management practices. While the dam's exact purpose and design may seem modest, its impact on the surrounding environment and community cannot be understated. By recognizing the value of Node and implementing necessary safety measures, stakeholders can continue to benefit from this essential water resource for years to come.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

DUGOUT COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.