Selis Ksanka Qlispe (Skq) is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Lake County, Montana, along the Flathead River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1938, this arch dam stands at a height of 200 feet with a storage capacity of 1,791,000 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities, making it a valuable resource for both energy production and outdoor enthusiasts.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Selis Ksanka Qlispe (Skq) is considered to have a high hazard potential due to its structural design and location. With a spillway width of 294 feet and an impressive maximum discharge of 120,000 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle large volumes of water flow. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment categorizes it as very high risk, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the surrounding environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Selis Ksanka Qlispe (Skq) presents a fascinating case study of a historic dam that continues to play a crucial role in Montana's energy infrastructure. Its strategic location along the Flathead River, coupled with its impressive storage capacity and high hazard potential, make it a notable landmark in the region. As efforts to mitigate climate change and adapt to shifting water resource dynamics continue, dams like Selis Ksanka Qlispe will play a key role in balancing energy production, water management, and environmental conservation in the years to come.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Flathead River |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
124800 |
Hydraulic Height |
187 |
Drainage Area |
7096 |
Nid Storage |
1791000 |
Structural Height |
200 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 14 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
200 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Finley Point State Park
|
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Big Arm State Park
|
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North Crow Creek
|