Queen City Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dickinson Dike Dry Dam Dickinson
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Queen City Dam, located in Dickinson, North Dakota, is a vital structure for irrigation purposes along the Heart River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1900 by NPRR, it stands at a height of 16.2 meters and has a length of 1050 meters, providing a maximum storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is still in use and regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission, ensuring its safety and functionality.
The dam's condition has been assessed as poor, with a high hazard potential, prompting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. In 1967, structural modifications were made to improve its stability. The risk assessment categorizes the dam as moderate, indicating the importance of implementing appropriate risk management measures. With a history of serving the local community for over a century, Queen City Dam remains a key asset for water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Queen City Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, hydrology, and environmental stewardship. Its historical significance, engineering design, and ongoing regulatory oversight present a compelling case study for the importance of maintaining and managing water resources effectively. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and functionality, it stands as a testament to the enduring impact of human intervention in shaping our relationship with water and the environment.
Years Modified |
1967 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
16.2 |
River Or Stream |
HEART RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.82 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
Queen City Dam