Delilah Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Delilah is a private water resource facility located in Chouteau, Montana, along Birch Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1960, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a dam height of 10 feet and a storage capacity of 227 acre-feet, Delilah plays a crucial role in water management in the area.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Delilah is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure safety and efficiency. The dam's significant hazard potential underscores the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness. While the condition of Delilah is currently not rated, its presence highlights the vital role that water infrastructure plays in supporting various community needs, from fire protection to agricultural activities.

As a key water resource in the region, Delilah's presence underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, Delilah serves as a model for how private water facilities can contribute to resilience and resource conservation in Montana. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate action can appreciate the role that Delilah plays in safeguarding water for present and future generations in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

BIRCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

227

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds