Ypsilanti Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ypsilanti Dam, located in North Dakota on the James River, was completed in 1933 and stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 134 feet.
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Summary
This masonry dam, primarily used for recreation, has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. While the dam has a low hazard potential, it is regulated and inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam, designed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), has undergone structural modifications in 1960 and 1973 to enhance its stability. With an uncontrolled spillway width of 85 feet, the dam poses a moderate risk level, but has not been formally rated for its condition. Despite its moderate risk, the dam is not considered a high priority for emergency action planning, and its hazard potential remains low. The Ypsilanti Dam serves as a key recreational attraction in the Stutsman County area, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and leisure for locals and visitors alike.
Years Modified |
1960 - Structural, 1973 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
134 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3400 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Jamestown
|
205cfs |
Sheyenne River Below Baldhill Dam
|
169cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
Pipestem Creek Nr Pingree
|
45cfs |
Baldhill Creek Nr Dazey
|
7cfs |
James River Above Arrowwood Lake Nr Kensal
|
56cfs |
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.
Ypsilanti Dam