Sather Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Derudder Dam Leland Dam; Ernest
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sather Dam, located in McKenzie, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.
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Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 1100 feet along Horse Creek. The primary purpose of Sather Dam is for recreation, with additional functions including fish and wildlife pond support.
With a storage capacity of 448 acre-feet, Sather Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region, providing essential support for recreation activities and wildlife habitat. Despite its significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk rating, the dam remains in a "Not Rated" condition assessment status as of the last inspection in September 2020.
As a key component of the watershed, Sather Dam contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the local environment. Its presence ensures a reliable water supply for various activities while serving as a recreational attraction for visitors to enjoy. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance by the USDA Forest Service, Sather Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
2008 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
37 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
448 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Sather Dam