Odland Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Odland Dam, located in Golden Valley, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure designed by FERA and completed in 1936.


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Summary

The dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 690 feet along Little Beaver Creek, serving primarily as a recreational site. With a storage capacity of 2020 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 126 acres and has a drainage area of 79 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Odland Dam underwent structural modifications in 1983 to ensure its continued safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 148 feet, and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), Odland Dam is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its integrity and safety standards.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Odland Dam for its historical significance, recreational opportunities, and role in managing water resources in the region. As a key feature along Little Beaver Creek, the dam provides both flood control and recreational benefits, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the area. With ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight, Odland Dam serves as a valuable asset for the local community and a symbol of responsible water resource management in North Dakota.

Years Modified

1983 - Structural

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

LITTLE BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

126

Drainage Area

79

Nid Storage

2020

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.