Sykeston Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cathay Dam Wyard Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sykeston Dam, also known as Lake Hiawatha, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Jamestown, North Dakota.
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Summary
Owned by the local government, the dam was designed by NDSWC and completed in 1908 for the primary purpose of water supply. With a dam height of 27.2 feet and a length of 1020 feet, it has a normal storage capacity of 806 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 105 acres, serving the surrounding community's water needs.
The dam, situated on Pipestem Creek, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies. It has a spillway width of 300 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment is currently not rated. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), prompting the need for efficient risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure.
With its historical significance dating back over a century, Sykeston Dam stands as a critical water supply source for the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and management of this infrastructure are essential to safeguarding the community's water supply and addressing the challenges posed by a changing climate. Sykeston Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of environmental uncertainties.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
1020 |
Dam Height |
27.2 |
River Or Stream |
PIPESTEM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
105 |
Drainage Area |
205 |
Nid Storage |
3790.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
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.
Sykeston Dam