Sather Dam

HORSE CREEK· McKenzie, North Dakota· Built 1964· Earth· 29 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Fish And Wildlife Pond Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Sather Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 29 ft (taller than 85.1% in ND)
Dam Length1,100 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage300 acre-ft
Normal Storage448 acre-ft
Surface Area37 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Max Discharge1,217 cfs
Year Completed1964 (62 years old)
NID IDND00153

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: No
Last Inspection: September 22, 2020
State Regulated: Yes

Ownership

USDA FS

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sather Dam?

Sather 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 Sather Dam?

Sather Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sather Dam built?

Sather Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Sather Dam?

Sather Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Sather Dam?

Sather Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Sather Dam last inspected?

Sather Dam was last inspected on September 22, 2020. 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.