Br-8 Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Reser Dam Miss Doll Dial Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Br-8 Retention Dam, located in Chinook, Montana, is a gravity dam constructed in 1936 by the Bureau of Land Management for flood risk reduction along the Redrock Coulee/Milk River.
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Summary
The dam stands at a structural height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6 feet, providing a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. With a surface area of 27 acres and a length of 417 feet, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Br-8 Retention Dam has a low hazard potential and is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its primary purpose of flood risk reduction highlights its significance in protecting the surrounding areas from potential water-related disasters. With no state regulation or permitting, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water security and climate resilience in Blaine County, Montana.
As a key structure in the region, Br-8 Retention Dam serves as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change. With its historical significance and vital role in flood risk reduction, the dam continues to be a critical asset in safeguarding the local community and ecosystem from water-related hazards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and supporting infrastructure like Br-8 Retention Dam is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and enhancing resilience to the changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
417 |
River Or Stream |
REDROCK COULEE/MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Br-8 Retention Dam