Metcalf Dam; Ronald Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Located in McKenzie, North Dakota, Metcalf Dam is a private irrigation structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1980.
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Summary
The dam, situated on Poison Spring Creek, has a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, serving multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and irrigation. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 2 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Metcalf Dam is an essential infrastructure for water management in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and is primarily constructed of earth and stone materials. Although the dam's condition assessment is not rated, it continues to serve its purpose effectively while being regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission.
While not federally owned or funded, Metcalf Dam remains a key asset for water resource management in North Dakota. Despite its age, the dam continues to support the local community by providing reliable irrigation water and maintaining a safe water supply for various uses. Its strategic location and design make it a valuable component in the region's water infrastructure landscape.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
POISON SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Metcalf Dam; Ronald