Yanktonai Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Yanktonai Dam, located in McLean, North Dakota, along Yanktonai Creek, is a local government-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 400 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a surface area of 200 acres, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), Yanktonai Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has undergone modifications in 1952 to enhance its structural integrity. Classified as having a significant hazard potential and moderate risk level, Yanktonai Dam serves as a vital water resource for the region, providing both recreational opportunities and flood control measures. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to be a key feature in the local landscape, offering a picturesque setting for visitors and residents alike.
With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core, Yanktonai Dam remains a significant structure in the St. Paul District, attracting visitors for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. As a part of the broader water resource management in North Dakota, the dam plays a crucial role in balancing the needs of recreation with the demands of flood control and water storage. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Yanktonai Dam will be essential in ensuring sustainable access to water and recreation for future generations.
Years Modified |
1952 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
YANKTONAI CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
200 |
Drainage Area |
12 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Square Butte Creek Below Center
|
2cfs |
Burnt Creek Nr Bismarck
|
9cfs |
Heart River Nr Mandan
|
101cfs |
Missouri River At Bismarck
|
16700cfs |
Hay Creek At Main Avenue In Bismarck
|
3cfs |
Apple Creek Nr Menoken
|
59cfs |
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.
Yanktonai Dam
Oliver County