Modifications are needed to bring the spillway gates and piers of the 50-year old Canyon Ferry dam near Helena in line with modern design and construction standards, said Dan Jewell, USBR Montana area manager.
Designs are to be drawn up over the next few months, with construction expected to follow within about three to four years. A public meeting is to be held this December to provide an overview of USBR’s proposals. Details have yet to be disclosed.
The dam is in no immediate danger, but the upgrades are a prudent precautionary measure, according to USBR.
Built in 1949, Canyon Ferry is a 69m high concrete gravity dam located on the Missouri river. It has four large spillway gates measuring 15.5m in width and 10.3m in height.
