Scoup Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pintail Dam One D-4 Ranch
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Scoup Dam, located in Carter County, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Built in 1966 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity-type dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and spans a length of 1080 feet. With a storage capacity of 160.34 acre-feet and a surface area of 27.13 acres, Scoup Dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of the Box Elder Creek/Little Missouri River watershed.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Scoup Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not been modified since its construction. Although it does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation, inspection, or enforcement, the Bureau of Land Management continues to oversee its operations and maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3 out of 5, Scoup Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique design and functionality of Scoup Dam, which highlights the importance of small-scale dams in supporting various community needs. From providing water for firefighting to sustaining livestock and wildlife habitats, this dam showcases the versatility and significance of water infrastructure in arid regions like Montana. As efforts continue to monitor and manage the risks associated with Scoup Dam, it remains a focal point for conservation and sustainable water management practices in the area.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1080 |
River Or Stream |
BOX ELDER CK./LITTLE MISSOURI |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
27.13 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.87 |
Nid Storage |
160.34 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Scoup Dam