Wyard Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sykeston Dam Van Ray Farms Dam 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wyard Dam, also known as Dover or Kiwanis Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Foster County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), this earth dam spans 540 feet across Pipestem Creek. With a height of 12.9 feet and a normal storage capacity of 401.7 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Wyard Dam is regulated and permitted by the NDSWC, which also conducts regular inspections and enforces safety measures. The dam's spillway, with a width of 98 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure. Its condition assessment is currently not rated, indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure the dam's safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the conservation and management of dams will find Wyard Dam a fascinating case study in local government ownership and regulation. With its historical significance and recreational importance, this structure on Pipestem Creek stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between the CCC and NDSWC in providing water storage and recreational opportunities for the residents of Foster County, North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
12.9 |
River Or Stream |
PIPESTEM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
97.7 |
Drainage Area |
262 |
Nid Storage |
1029.8 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Wyard Dam