Welk Dam
Key Takeaway
Welk Dam is classified as low hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 26 ft (taller than 81.7% in ND) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 165 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 165 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | ND00103 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Emmons County Commission
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Welk Dam?
Welk 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 Welk Dam?
Welk Dam is owned by Emmons County Commission (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Welk Dam built?
Welk Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Welk Dam?
Welk 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 Welk Dam?
Welk Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Welk Dam last inspected?
Welk Dam was last inspected on April 30, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.