Mcdowell Dam
Key Takeaway
Mcdowell Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 51 ft (taller than 95.8% in ND) |
| Dam Length | 1,370 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 840 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 60 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | ND00039 |
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
Burleigh County WRB
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Mcdowell Dam?
Mcdowell 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 Mcdowell Dam?
Mcdowell Dam is owned by Burleigh County WRB (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mcdowell Dam built?
Mcdowell Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 Mcdowell Dam?
Mcdowell 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 Mcdowell Dam?
Mcdowell Dam has a dam height of 51 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 Mcdowell Dam last inspected?
Mcdowell Dam was last inspected on October 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.