Br-55 Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Located in Zurich, Montana, the Br-55 Retention Dam is a Federal-owned structure designed by the Bureau of Land Management to reduce flood risks along Battle Creek and the Milk River.
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Summary
Completed in 1937, this gravity dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, with a length of 319 feet. It has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23 acres, serving as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. With a 5-year inspection frequency, the last inspection was conducted in October 2017. The primary purpose of the Br-55 Retention Dam is flood risk reduction, aligning with its design and construction by the Bureau of Land Management. As a key infrastructure in the area, it plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community and environment from potential water-related disasters.
Managed and operated by the Bureau of Land Management, this retention dam underscores the importance of proactive water resource management in mitigating climate-related risks. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall resilience of the region, showcasing a commitment to sustainable water infrastructure for the benefit of both people and the environment.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
319 |
River Or Stream |
BATTLE CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
23 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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-55 Retention Dam