Hanks Corner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Hanks Corner Dam, also known as Tongue River WS Dam T3-5, is a vital piece of infrastructure located in Hallson, North Dakota.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam designed by USDA NRCS serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Tongue River. Completed in 1955, the dam stands at a height of 58 feet with a structural height of 70 feet and a length of 850 feet.

With a maximum storage capacity of 281.8 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 12.3 acre-feet, Hanks Corner Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet can help mitigate potential flood risks, making it a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's condition is currently not rated, but its significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.

Situated in Cavalier County, North Dakota, Hanks Corner Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding the community against flooding events. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in managing water levels and protecting downstream areas remains critical. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hanks Corner Dam exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and community resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

TONGUE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.9

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

281.8

Structural Height

70

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

70
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.