Stump Retention Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: Harkin Pete

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Stump Retention Dam, located in Terry, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond habitat.


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Summary

Built in 2003 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21 feet. With a drainage area of 25.86 acres and a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet, the dam plays a critical role in managing water resources for the Timber Creek and Powder River.

Despite its low hazard potential, Stump Retention Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Owned, funded, and operated by the Bureau of Land Management, the dam provides valuable water storage and protection in a region prone to wildfires and drought. With its unique design featuring buttress and stone core types, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in a federal landscape.

As a key feature in the Omaha District's water resource infrastructure, Stump Retention Dam is a vital component in the conservation efforts of the Powder River region. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, the dam showcases the importance of proactive water management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring the resilience of local ecosystems. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Stump Retention Dam is a shining example of effective collaboration between federal agencies and local communities in safeguarding precious water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

764

River Or Stream

TIMBER CK./POWDER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

25.86

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

310

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.