Howard Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Howard Dam, located in Grant County, North Dakota, was completed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and is currently owned and regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 14 feet, with a structural height of 23 feet, holding a storage capacity of 181 acre-feet for recreation purposes along Snake Creek. The dam is primarily made of earth and stone materials, with a spillway width of 50 feet and a low hazard potential.
While the dam has not been rated for its condition, it is considered to have a moderate risk level and has not had any emergency action plans or inundation maps prepared. Despite the lack of recent inspections and maintenance records, the dam continues to serve its purpose for recreational activities in the area. With its historical significance and role in water resource management, Howard Dam remains a notable feature in the St. Paul District of North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
14.56 |
Nid Storage |
181 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Howard Dam