Harvey Dam

Sheyenne River· Wells, North Dakota· Built 1920· Earth· 31 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Harvey Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 31 ft (taller than 87.2% in ND)
Dam Length690 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage7.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.7K acre-ft
Surface Area360 acres
Drainage Area534 sq mi
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDND00189

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 8, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ND DWR

Ownership

Wells County WRB

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Harvey Dam?

Harvey 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 Harvey Dam?

Harvey Dam is owned by Wells County WRB (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Harvey Dam built?

Harvey Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Harvey Dam?

Harvey Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Harvey Dam?

Harvey Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Harvey Dam last inspected?

Harvey Dam was last inspected on May 8, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.