Swamp Cooler Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Swamp Cooler is a private earth dam located in Galata, Montana, constructed in 1960 for purposes such as fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

With a dam height of 8 feet and a length of 500 feet, it has a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), ensuring compliance with state regulations and safety standards.

Situated in Toole County, Swamp Cooler serves as a vital resource for water supply and management in the area, particularly for fire protection and agricultural purposes. The low hazard potential of the dam, along with its condition assessment not rated, indicates the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its functionality and safety. Despite its relatively small size, Swamp Cooler plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a part of the Omaha District in Montana, Swamp Cooler stands as a testament to the importance of private water infrastructure in supporting rural communities and enhancing their resilience to changing climate conditions. With its primary purpose being fire protection and stock water supply, the dam serves as a multi-functional asset for the local area. By adhering to state regulations and inspection protocols, Swamp Cooler continues to contribute to sustainable water management practices in Toole County.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

DIFFUSED SURFACE WATER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

81

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.