Wapiti Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wapiti Dam, located in Fort Peck, Montana, is a federal-owned structure primarily serving as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1984 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, Wapiti Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding area.

Situated on Telegraph Creek/Missouri River, Wapiti Dam is designed to provide low hazard potential, making it a key asset for wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement. Despite not being regulated by the state, the Bureau of Land Management oversees the operations, inspections, and regulatory aspects of the dam. With its strategic location and purpose, Wapiti Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region, ensuring a sustainable environment for fish and wildlife populations.

While Wapiti Dam may not be the largest structure in terms of storage capacity, its significance lies in its specialized function as a fish and wildlife pond. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Wapiti Dam become increasingly crucial in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. Through effective management and oversight by federal agencies, Wapiti Dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

374

River Or Stream

TELEGRAPH CK./MISSOURI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.