Pirate Dam

SHAW CREEK· Chouteau, Montana· Built 1982· Earth· 60 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Private

Key Takeaway

Pirate Dam is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1982 and is 44 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 60 ft (taller than 97.6% in MT)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage192 acre-ft
Normal Storage192 acre-ft
Max Discharge100 cfs
Year Completed1982 (44 years old)
NID IDMT03779

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
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DNRC

Ownership

HARRISON LAND & LIVESTOCK

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Pirate Dam?

Pirate 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 Pirate Dam?

Pirate Dam is owned by HARRISON LAND & LIVESTOCK (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Pirate Dam built?

Pirate Dam was completed in 1982, making it 44 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 Pirate Dam?

Pirate Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Pirate Dam?

Pirate Dam has a dam height of 60 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.

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.