It works in conjunction with the Regulating Dam Port at Seeland.

The works started in 1966, and the dam and adjoining downstream hydroelectric power station were commissioned in 1970.

The Murgenthal Status stipulates that the flow of the Aare River must not exceed 850m3/s (30,000 cu ft/s) at the gauge of Murgenthal's station, which is located downstream of the confluence of the Aare and the Emme rivers.

When the Emme river flow increases, the flow of the Aare downstream of their confluence increases accordingly, which may cause flooding downstream in the cantons of Solothurn and Aargau.

If the flow increases too much, then the Regulating Dam Port must limit the flow of the Aare upstream, using the three lakes to absorb the crest of the flood, until the Emme's overflow subsides.