Mcgregor Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mcgregor Dam, also known as Spangrud Dam, is a state-owned structure located in McGregor, North Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1967 by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans a length of 900 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, particularly for fish and wildlife pond activities, with a normal storage capacity of 742.4 acre-feet and a total storage of 1490.3 acre-feet.

Despite its recreational benefits, Mcgregor Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of April 2021. The dam is regulated and inspected by the NDSWC, with enforcement and permitting authority granted by the state of North Dakota. With a spillway width of 45 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a risk assessment rating of moderate (3). Emergency action plans are in place, although they may need updating to meet current guidelines.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Mcgregor Dam will find it to be a significant structure in the White Earth Creek-TR watershed, providing both recreational opportunities and potential risks to the surrounding area. The dam's association with the NDSWC and its location in Williams County, North Dakota, make it a key site for understanding water management practices and the importance of maintaining infrastructure for both public safety and environmental conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

White Earth Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54.3

Drainage Area

7.57

Nid Storage

1490.3

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.