Vr-77 Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Conehead Dam Vr-57 Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Vr-77 Retention Dam, located in Hinsdale, Montana, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond habitat.
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Summary
Built in 2003 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet. With a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet, the dam helps in managing water resources for the Rock Creek/Milk River watershed.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential upgrades. The last inspection in 2016 revealed the need for attention to ensure the structure's safety and functionality. While the risk assessment is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3, there is room for improvement in implementing risk management measures and emergency action plans to address any potential issues.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Vr-77 Retention Dam in supporting local ecosystems and providing essential water storage for various purposes. With its location in a critical watershed area, the dam's maintenance and upkeep are vital to ensure sustainable water management practices and mitigate any potential risks associated with its condition.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
681 |
River Or Stream |
ROCK CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
18.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
31.9 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Vr-77 Retention Dam