Big Coulee Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Coulee Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 36 ft (taller than 90.1% in ND) |
| Dam Length | 1,170 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 240 acres |
| Drainage Area | 108 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | ND00015 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
City of Bisbee
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Coulee Dam?
Big Coulee Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Coulee Dam?
Big Coulee Dam is owned by City of Bisbee (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Coulee Dam built?
Big Coulee Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Coulee Dam?
Big Coulee Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Coulee Dam?
Big Coulee Dam has a dam height of 36 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Big Coulee Dam last inspected?
Big Coulee Dam was last inspected on May 8, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.