Indian Creek Dam

Indian Creek· Hettinger, North Dakota· Built 1979· Earth· 43 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Indian Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1979 and is 47 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 43 ft (taller than 93.5% in ND)
Dam Length890 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage5.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.7K acre-ft
Surface Area236 acres
Drainage Area14 sq mi
Year Completed1979 (47 years old)
NID IDND00397

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: August 31, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ND DWR

Ownership

ND Game & Fish

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Indian Creek Dam?

Indian Creek 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 Indian Creek Dam?

Indian Creek Dam is owned by ND Game & Fish (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Indian Creek Dam built?

Indian Creek Dam was completed in 1979, making it 47 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 Indian Creek Dam?

Indian Creek 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 Indian Creek Dam?

Indian Creek Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Indian Creek Dam last inspected?

Indian Creek Dam was last inspected on August 31, 2022. 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.