Dam #168 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Dam #168, located in Valley County, Montana, is a gravity dam standing at a structural height of 19 feet with a hydraulic height of 14 feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this federal-owned structure on an unnamed drainage system serves a primary purpose that is currently unspecified. With a storage capacity of 86.74 acre-feet and a surface area of 17.34 acres, Dam #168 plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Dam #168 has not been inspected since November 2018. With an inspection frequency of every 5 years, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to advocate for regular monitoring and maintenance of this dam to ensure its continued safety and functionality. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Dam #168 highlights the importance of sustainable management practices to address the challenges posed by climate change and evolving hydrological conditions.

As a structure under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management, Dam #168 represents the intersection of federal ownership, regulatory oversight, and operational responsibility. With its historical significance and role in water storage and management, this gravity dam serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining and safeguarding water resources for the benefit of both present and future generations. It is essential for stakeholders to collaborate and prioritize the protection and preservation of dams like #168 in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water demands.

Dam Length

452

River Or Stream

UNNAMED DRAINAGE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

17.34

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

86.74

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.