Morony Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morony Dam, located in Fort Benton, Montana, is a gravity dam constructed in 1929 primarily for hydroelectric purposes on the Missouri River.


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Summary

With a height of 70 feet and a hydraulic height of 93 feet, the dam boasts a structural height of 107 feet and a total length of 842 feet. It has a storage capacity of 13,889 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 153,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Managed by a private entity, Morony Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and operational integrity. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 306 feet, mitigates flood risks in the area, although it is classified as having a high hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment remains at a very high level, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential disasters and ensure the sustainability of the surrounding environment and communities.

The dam's association with renowned designers Electric Bond and Share/Charles T. Main highlights its historical significance and engineering excellence. Its critical role in hydroelectric power generation and water storage underscores its importance in supporting regional water resource management efforts and climate resilience initiatives. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities of infrastructure like Morony Dam is essential for promoting sustainable development and safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

842

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

Missouri River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

304

Hydraulic Height

93

Drainage Area

23292

Nid Storage

13889

Structural Height

107

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

107
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.