Clark Retention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Clark Retention Dam, located in Glendive, Montana, is a gravity dam built in 2003 by the Bureau of Land Management for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, the dam stands at a length of 782 feet and has a storage capacity of 149.4 acre-feet. Situated on Cherry Creek near the Yellowstone River, the dam serves to regulate water flow and provide essential resources for the surrounding area.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Clark Retention Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam has not been rated for condition assessment, but it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's primary purpose, in addition to its fire protection and stock functions, highlights its importance in maintaining a sustainable ecosystem and water supply for both wildlife and local communities.

Owned, funded, designed, and managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Clark Retention Dam exemplifies the agency's commitment to responsible water resource management. With its strategic location and design features, the dam contributes to the overall environmental health of the area while providing essential services for various stakeholders. As a key piece of infrastructure in Prairie County, Montana, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of reservoirs in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring water security for future generations.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

782

River Or Stream

CHERRY CK./YELLOWSTONE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

25.36

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

149.4

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.