Dickinson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mann Dam Queen City Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Dickinson, also known as Patterson Lake, is a federal-owned water resource located in Stark, North Dakota.
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Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth-type dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Heart River. Completed in 1950, this structure stands at a height of 48.6 feet with a maximum storage capacity of 26,595 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 8,612 acre-feet.
The dam has a spillway width of 200 feet and can discharge up to 104,790 cubic feet per second in the event of high water levels. With a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is not currently available, but it undergoes regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam lacks crucial emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan, indicating potential vulnerabilities in case of unforeseen events.
Water enthusiasts and climate advocates monitoring Dickinson should be aware of its critical importance for irrigation and water supply in the region. With a focus on ensuring the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource, ongoing evaluations and risk management measures will be essential for safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
2275 |
Dam Height |
48.6 |
River Or Stream |
HEART RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2158 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
406 |
Nid Storage |
26595 |
Structural Height |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Bascule - 2, Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
65 |
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.
Dickinson