Pr-88 Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pr-156 Retention Dam Clausen
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Situated in Hinsdale, Montana, the Pr-88 Retention Dam is a vital federal structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1936, this gravity dam stands at 16 feet tall and spans 324 feet in length, providing essential storage of 233.67 acre-feet to the Whitewater Creek/Milk River watershed. With its primary purpose being fire protection, stock, or small fish pond management, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource conservation and climate resilience in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, the Pr-88 Retention Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2016. While its condition remains unrated, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unreported. With a dedication to maintaining public safety and environmental sustainability, this federal structure exemplifies the ongoing commitment to effective water management and climate adaptation strategies in Montana.
As a key component of the Bureau of Land Management's operations, the Pr-88 Retention Dam stands as a testament to the agency's dedication to balancing natural resource utilization with conservation efforts. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, this dam serves as a valuable asset in mitigating water-related risks and promoting ecosystem health in the Phillips County region. The ongoing monitoring and maintenance of this structure underscore the importance of proactive management practices in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
324 |
River Or Stream |
WHITEWATER CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
80.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
60.7 |
Nid Storage |
233.67 |
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.
Pr-88 Retention Dam