Swift Dam (Montana) facts for kids

Swift Dam is an important structure located in Pondera County, Montana. It sits on the southern edge of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Dams like Swift Dam help manage water for different uses, such as irrigation and providing water for communities.

Swift Dam: A Montana Landmark

The Original Dam and Its Collapse

The first Swift Dam was built around 1910. It stood 157 feet tall. However, on June 10, 1964, heavy rains caused major flooding on Birch Creek. The dam could not hold the water and broke apart.

When the dam collapsed, a huge wall of water, about 30 feet high, rushed down the creek bed. Another nearby dam, at Lower Two Medicine Lake, also failed. This event led to a tragic loss of life and affected many people in the area.

Building the New Dam

After the collapse, a new and stronger Swift Dam was built. The current dam is made of concrete and has an arch shape. It was finished in 1967. This new dam is 205 feet tall and 573 feet long across its top.

The reservoir behind the dam is also held by a second, smaller earthen wall. This wall was also completed in 1967. It is 53 feet tall and 457 feet long. The local Pondera Canal & Reservoir Company owns and operates both the dams and the reservoir.

Swift Reservoir and Recreation

The water held back by Swift Dam forms Swift Reservoir. This reservoir can hold a lot of water, up to 34,000 acre-feet. Normally, it holds about 30,000 acre-feet of water.

Recreational activities at Swift Reservoir are limited. People can enjoy hiking in the area. If you plan to visit the parking area, you will need permission from the Blackfeet Nation.