Katz Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Painted Woods Lake Lost Lake Wpa 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Katz Dam, also known as Benzi Dam, is a masonry structure located in North Dakota along Painted Woods Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this dam is primarily used for recreation purposes and stands at a height of 12.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a surface area of 15 acres, Katz Dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in McLean County.
Managed by local government authorities, Katz Dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. With an uncontrolled spillway type and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses a moderate risk to the surrounding area. The last inspection of Katz Dam was conducted in April 2016, with no specific details provided on its condition or any emergency action plans in place.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the history and current status of Katz Dam can appreciate its unique design features, such as its buttress core type and soil foundation. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its location and purpose make it an important part of the local landscape. With a focus on recreation and a relatively small drainage area of 200 acres, Katz Dam remains a key feature in the McLean County water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
12.5 |
River Or Stream |
PAINTED WOODS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
200 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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 |
Sweetbriar Creek Nr Judson
|
3cfs |
Knife River At Hazen
|
48cfs |
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.
Katz Dam