Drga Dam

SAGE COULEE· Chouteau, Montana· Built 1938· Earth· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Private

Key Takeaway

Drga Dam is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 82.7% in MT)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage148 acre-ft
Normal Storage110 acre-ft
Surface Area13 acres
Year Completed1938 (88 years old)
NID IDMT03365

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 9, 1995
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DNRC

Ownership

JIM DRGA

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Drga Dam?

Drga Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Drga Dam?

Drga Dam is owned by JIM DRGA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Drga Dam built?

Drga Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Drga Dam?

Drga Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Drga Dam?

Drga Dam has a dam height of 30 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Drga Dam last inspected?

Drga Dam was last inspected on June 9, 1995. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.