Metcalf Dam

CS Creek· Golden Valley, North Dakota· Built 1965· Earth· 22 ft tall
Low Hazard Irrigation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Metcalf Dam is classified as low hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 22 ft (taller than 71.2% in ND)
Dam Length470 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage140 acre-ft
Normal Storage66 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Year Completed1965 (61 years old)
NID IDND00224

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: April 22, 2003
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ND DWR

Ownership

Golden Valley County WRB

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Metcalf Dam?

Metcalf Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Metcalf Dam?

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

When was Metcalf Dam built?

Metcalf Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Metcalf Dam?

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

How tall is Metcalf Dam?

Metcalf Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Metcalf Dam last inspected?

Metcalf Dam was last inspected on April 22, 2003. 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.