Tioga Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Tioga Dam, located in Williams County, North Dakota, was completed in 1963 by the NDSWC and serves as a vital structure along the White Earth River for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 38.5 feet with a length of 1660 feet, providing storage capacity of 1630 acre-feet for water activities and wildlife habitat. Despite its age, Tioga Dam has undergone modifications in 1974 to ensure structural integrity, with a spillway width of 175 feet to manage excess water flow.
However, recent assessments have raised concerns about the dam's condition, with a poor rating and a high hazard potential due to its outdated infrastructure. The last inspection in 2018 revealed the need for improvements, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance to prevent risks to downstream communities. While the risk assessment currently stands at a moderate level, the dam's management and emergency preparedness measures are crucial to address any potential safety concerns and ensure the long-term sustainability of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tioga Dam represents a significant piece of infrastructure that requires attention and investment to maintain its functionality and mitigate potential risks. As a key player in the recreational landscape of North Dakota, the dam's role in water management and conservation underscores the importance of proactive measures to safeguard its surroundings and ensure the safety of local residents. With ongoing assessments and risk management strategies, Tioga Dam can continue to serve as a valuable resource for both recreational and environmental purposes in the region.
Years Modified |
1974 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1660 |
Dam Height |
38.5 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE EARTH RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
82.5 |
Drainage Area |
5.86 |
Nid Storage |
1630 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
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.
Tioga Dam