Helen B Dent Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lost Calf Detention Dam Helen B
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Helen B Dent Dam, located in Carter, Montana, along the West Fork T.
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Summary
L. Creek, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This gravity dam, with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 37 feet, serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 0.54 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 123.3 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 29.35 acres with a drainage area of 0.2 square miles.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Helen B Dent Dam is subject to regular inspections by the Bureau of Land Management to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 2 feet and has not undergone any significant modifications in recent years. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's risk management measures are currently unspecified, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the continued safety of the surrounding area and water resources.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Helen B Dent Dam for its important role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region. As a key piece of infrastructure owned and operated by the federal government, the dam exemplifies the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of water storage and flood control while maintaining the safety and integrity of the surrounding environment. With its unique design and purpose, Helen B Dent Dam stands as a testament to the critical role that dams play in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Montana and beyond.
Dam Length |
1261 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK T. L. CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
29.35 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
123.3 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
37 |
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.
Helen B Dent Dam