Atlas Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tuff Retention Dam Ellsworth
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Atlas Dam, located in Tampico, Montana, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation along the Milk River.
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Summary
Built in 1984 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9.4 acres and a drainage area of 2.1 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the natural ecosystem in the region.
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Atlas Dam is designed to regulate water flow, support wildlife habitats, and enhance recreational activities in the area. The dam's low hazard potential and regular inspection schedule ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Despite its primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond, the dam also contributes to irrigation, flood control, and water supply management in Valley County.
With its strategic location and impact on the local environment, Atlas Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Montana. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Atlas in preserving ecosystems and supporting biodiversity is crucial for advocating for responsible water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
409 |
River Or Stream |
MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
9.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
51 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Atlas Dam