Pr-137 King Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carters Reservoir Blunt Ranches #2
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Pr-137 King Retention Dam, located in Fort Peck, Montana, is a vital structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management to mitigate flood risks along the Telegraph Creek and Missouri River.
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Summary
Built in 1937, this gravity dam stands at a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 29 feet, with a length of 451 feet and a storage capacity of 90.9 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the Pr-137 King Retention Dam serves as a critical component of water resource management in Phillips County, Montana. The dam's design, incorporating buttress and stone core types, showcases a blend of traditional and innovative engineering techniques to control the flow of water and protect surrounding areas from potential inundation. As the dam is owned, funded, designed, and operated by the Bureau of Land Management, it highlights the federal government's commitment to safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the adverse impacts of extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of infrastructure like the Pr-137 King Retention Dam is crucial in advocating for sustainable water management practices and resilient infrastructure development. By recognizing the role of dams in flood risk reduction and the protection of natural resources, we can work towards promoting policies that prioritize the conservation and responsible use of water resources in the face of evolving climate challenges. The data on this dam underscores the importance of proactive maintenance, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness to ensure the long-term safety and effectiveness of our water infrastructure in the changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
451 |
River Or Stream |
TELEGRAPH CK./MISSOURI RIVER ( |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
90.9 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Pr-137 King Retention Dam