Schlenker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Schlenker Dam, located in McIntosh, North Dakota, was completed in 1939 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 27.5 feet and with a length of 460 feet, serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and creating a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

The dam, situated on the James River-OS, falls under the jurisdiction of the state of North Dakota and is inspected regularly for safety. Despite not being regulated by the state, it is enforced and maintained by local government authorities. With an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, the dam poses a moderate risk according to a risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.

Overall, Schlenker Dam is a vital infrastructure for the local community, providing essential services such as fire protection and water storage for livestock. As a reliable structure with a history dating back to the 1930s, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With proper maintenance and oversight, Schlenker Dam will continue to play a key role in ensuring water security and resilience in McIntosh, North Dakota.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

JAMES RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

50

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.