Br-22 Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Br-55 Retention Dam Thretening Times
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Br-22 Retention Dam, located in Zurich, Montana, along Battle Creek and the Milk River, was completed in 1936 by the Bureau of Land Management for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
This gravity-type dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 11 feet, offering a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in September 2017.
With a surface area of 21.9 acres and a drainage area of 0.9 square miles, Br-22 Retention Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. Although the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, it remains under the ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operation of the Bureau of Land Management. The dam's location in a rural area and its low hazard potential highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
Given its historical significance and critical role in water resource management, Br-22 Retention Dam serves as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, the retention dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptive capacity in the face of evolving environmental conditions. With its strategic location and design, the dam underscores the need for sustainable water management practices to protect both human populations and the natural environment from the threats of flooding and water scarcity.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
387 |
River Or Stream |
BATTLE CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
21.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
0.9 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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-22 Retention Dam