Clark Canyon
Key Takeaway
Clark Canyon is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 148 ft (taller than 99.6% in MT) |
| Dam Length | 2,950 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 329.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 178.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6,606 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,315 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1985 |
| NID ID | MT00569 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Clark Canyon?
Clark Canyon is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Clark Canyon?
Clark Canyon is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Clark Canyon built?
Clark Canyon was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Clark Canyon?
Clark Canyon serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Clark Canyon?
Clark Canyon has a dam height of 148 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 Clark Canyon last inspected?
Clark Canyon was last inspected on May 7, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.