Middle Br. Park River #8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Middle Br.


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Summary

Park River #8, also known as Johnston Dam or Skyrud Dam, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Grafton, North Dakota. Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 69.5 feet and has a structural height of 79 feet, with a length of 2400 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the Middle Branch Park River, with a storage capacity of 3615 acre-feet and a surface area of 20.5 acres.

Managed by the NDSWC and regulated by the state of North Dakota, Middle Br. Park River #8 is classified as having a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite not being rated for its condition, this dam has not been modified since its completion and does not have outlet gates or locks. The spillway, with a width of 350 feet, is uncontrolled in case of overflow, ensuring the safety of the surrounding area in case of heavy rainfall or flooding events.

With its location in Walsh County and its critical role in flood risk reduction for the Middle Branch Park River, Middle Br. Park River #8 is a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its design and construction by the USDA NRCS highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events on local communities.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

69.5

River Or Stream

MIDDLE BRANCH PARK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.5

Drainage Area

20.4

Nid Storage

3615

Structural Height

79

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

79
       
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.