Dougcliff Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dougcliff Reservoir, located in Chouteau, Montana, is a private irrigation reservoir constructed in 1950 on the TR-Dog Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, primarily used for irrigation purposes, is an earth structure standing at a height of 20 feet and with a length of 150 feet. With a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, the reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Dougcliff Reservoir has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. While the dam has not been modified over the years, it undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The reservoir provides a reliable water source for local farmers and contributes to the sustainable use of water resources in the area.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation will find Dougcliff Reservoir an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation structure in Montana. With its modest scale and essential role in supporting agricultural activities, the reservoir serves as a practical example of how small-scale water infrastructure can contribute to the resilience of communities facing changing climate conditions. The regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts by the DNRC showcase the commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of the reservoir for both present and future generations.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-DOG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.