Pioneer Dam

Middle Branch Forest River· Walsh, North Dakota· Built 1934· Earth· 10 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Pioneer Dam is classified as unknown in North Dakota. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond.

Physical Details

Dam Height 10 ft (taller than 20% in ND)
Dam Length0 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Normal Storage50 acre-ft
Surface Area21 acres
Drainage Area85 sq mi
Year Completed1934 (92 years old)
NID IDND01190

Safety Information

Unknown

Hazard potential has not been determined.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 5, 2016
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Walsh County WRB

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Pioneer Dam?

Pioneer Dam is classified as Unknown. Hazard potential has not been determined. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Pioneer Dam?

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

When was Pioneer Dam built?

Pioneer Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Pioneer Dam?

Pioneer Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Pioneer Dam?

Pioneer Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Pioneer Dam last inspected?

Pioneer Dam was last inspected on May 5, 2016. 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.