West Alkali Reservoir

WEST ALKALI CREEK· Phillips, Montana· Built 1902· Earth· 25 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

West Alkali Reservoir is classified as significant hazard in Montana. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 25 ft (taller than 70.3% in MT)
Dam Length504 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage1.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.2K acre-ft
Drainage Area16 sq mi
Max Discharge150 cfs
Year Completed1902 (124 years old)
NID IDMT01334

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

G MILK RIVER LAND & CATTLE CO

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Alkali Reservoir?

West Alkali Reservoir 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 West Alkali Reservoir?

West Alkali Reservoir is owned by G MILK RIVER LAND & CATTLE CO (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was West Alkali Reservoir built?

West Alkali Reservoir was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 West Alkali Reservoir?

West Alkali Reservoir serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is West Alkali Reservoir?

West Alkali Reservoir has a dam height of 25 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.