Yanktonai Dam

Yanktonai Creek· McLean, North Dakota· Built 1935· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Local Government

Key Takeaway

Yanktonai Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 68.5% in ND)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage600 acre-ft
Normal Storage600 acre-ft
Surface Area200 acres
Drainage Area12 sq mi
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDND00094

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: Yes
Last Inspection: October 27, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ND DWR

Ownership

McLean County WRB

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Yanktonai Dam?

Yanktonai 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 Yanktonai Dam?

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

When was Yanktonai Dam built?

Yanktonai Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Yanktonai Dam?

Yanktonai Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, 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 Yanktonai Dam?

Yanktonai Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Yanktonai Dam last inspected?

Yanktonai Dam was last inspected on October 27, 2022. 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.