Shane Etzwiler
Community Relations Manager
NorthWestern Energy
shane.etzwiler@northwestern.com
406-868-7508Black Eagle Dam Spillway Project
Enhanced integrity of the Black Eagle Dam
The project will involve installing new support structures and components of the spillway. The upgrade will improve the integrity of the dam.
The spillway upgrade will begin in September 2024 and take two years.
Removal of Boat Restraint Barrier
- Crews have removed the boat restraint barrier that is typically installed 500 feet above Black Eagle Dam to allow access for the barge and construction materials.
- The barrier will not be replaced until the project is completed.
- Paddlers, boaters, and other users should exercise caution when recreating on the water above Black Eagle Dam.
- For safety, stay out of the area directly above the dam.
Ice buildup removal will be eliminated
Ice buildup removal will be eliminated
The upgrade will eliminate the requirement to manually remove ice buildup, which is done during frigid temperatures by NorthWestern Energy hydro crews.
Barge in place
Barge in place
A barge is in use to hold equipment and transport supplies for the project work.
A barge will be located upstream of Black Eagle Dam to transport materials and equipment for project work.
River's Edge Trail closures
River's Edge Trail closures
A barge landing is located on the northside of the Missouri River, upstream from Black Eagle Dam. Vehicle access to the landing for supply and equipment deliveries crosses the River’s Edge Trail, west of the fenced entrance to the Black Eagle Island area.
The River’s Edge Trail at the vehicle access site may be closed at times for the safety of the public.
While intermittent, delayed use of the trail for up to an hour may occur without advance notice. In the event of intermittent delays, flaggers will be onsite to direct trail users to ensure the safety of the recreating public.
Metal plates are installed over the River’s Edge Trail at the vehicle access site to protect the trail.
When the Black Eagle Dam Spillway Project is complete, the barge landing will be restored to the site’s original condition and the metal plates installed over the trail will be removed.
For more information on this project, contact:
Devin McCarthy
Project Engineer
NorthWestern Energy
devin.mccarthy@northwestern.com
406-497-3218