Pipestem Dam
Key Takeaway
Pipestem Dam is classified as high hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 4,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 181.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 855 acres |
| Drainage Area | 594 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 48,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | ND00146 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Omaha District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pipestem Dam?
Pipestem Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Pipestem Dam?
Pipestem Dam is owned by USACE - Omaha District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pipestem Dam built?
Pipestem Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Pipestem Dam?
Pipestem Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Pipestem Dam last inspected?
Pipestem Dam was last inspected on September 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.