Squiggles #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Squiggles #2 Castor (Choteau)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Squiggles #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Loma, Montana, within Chouteau County.
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Summary
Completed in 1965, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 2000 feet, Squiggles #1 has a storage capacity of 296 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 152 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and is categorized as having a low hazard potential.
Situated on Sheep Coulee, Squiggles #1 is a vital water resource for the region, providing essential services for both the local community and the surrounding ecosystem. Its strategic location and purpose make it a key element in the water management infrastructure of the area. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Squiggles #1 become increasingly important. Understanding the condition and functionality of such structures is crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring their resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its unique design and historical significance, Squiggles #1 represents a valuable asset in the water resource management framework of Montana.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
SHEEP COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
296 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Marias River Near Chester Mt
|
249cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4290cfs |
Teton River Near Dutton Mt
|
83cfs |
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.
Squiggles #1