Twelvemile Coulee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rocky Crossing Reservoir Schmidt
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Twelvemile Coulee, located in Chouteau, Montana, is a private water resource serving multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1969, stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 392 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, ensuring proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its integrity.
Despite its low hazard potential, Twelvemile Coulee plays a crucial role in providing water resources for the surrounding area. The dam's primary purpose of fire protection underscores its importance in safeguarding against potential wildfires in the region. With a history dating back to the late 1960s, this structure has stood the test of time, offering a reliable source of water for various agricultural and conservation needs.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will appreciate the careful regulation and maintenance of Twelvemile Coulee, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. The dam's strategic location in the Omaha District and its association with the state of Montana highlight its significance in managing water resources in the region. As a privately owned structure with state jurisdiction, Twelvemile Coulee serves as a prime example of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TWELVEMILE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
392 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Missouri River At Virgelle Mt
|
4290cfs |
Teton River At Loma Mt
|
30cfs |
Big Sandy Creek Near Havre Mt
|
6cfs |
Marias River Near Loma Mt
|
335cfs |
Milk River At Havre Mt
|
42cfs |
Missouri River At Fort Benton Mt
|
4720cfs |
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.
Twelvemile Coulee