Depression Detention Dam
Key Takeaway
Depression Detention Dam is classified as high hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 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 Length | 1,250 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 148 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 26 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,910 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | MT00606 |
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
DOI BLM
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Depression Detention Dam?
Depression Detention Dam 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 Depression Detention Dam?
Depression Detention Dam is owned by DOI BLM (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Depression Detention Dam built?
Depression Detention Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Depression Detention Dam?
Depression Detention Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Depression Detention Dam last inspected?
Depression Detention Dam was last inspected on July 9, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.