Murky Retention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Murky Retention Dam, located in Phillips County, Montana, was completed in 1966 by the Bureau of Land Management for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at a structural height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21 feet, with a length of 1030 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 89.1 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
Managed and funded by the Bureau of Land Management, Murky Retention Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is situated along the Alkali Creek/Milk River, providing essential water supply for agriculture, wildlife, and firefighting activities in the area.
With its strategic location and importance for water storage and management, Murky Retention Dam represents a significant asset for the community of Malta and the broader region. As climate change continues to influence water resources and availability, the proper maintenance and operation of this dam are essential to ensure a sustainable and secure water supply for the future. The Bureau of Land Management remains committed to the upkeep and regulation of this critical infrastructure, highlighting the crucial role of dams in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on water resources.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1030 |
River Or Stream |
ALKALI CK./MILK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
2.4 |
Nid Storage |
89.1 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Murky Retention Dam