Selis Ksanka Qlispe (Skq) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Selis Ksanka Qlispe (Skq) is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Lake County, Montana, along the Flathead River.


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Summary

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
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.