Zahn Dam; Joseph Reservoir Report
Nearby: Keller Dam; Joe 1 Kessler Dam; Kim
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Zahn Dam, located in North Dakota along Brush Creek-TR, was completed in 1964 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 17.1 feet and stretches 290 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this structure is under the regulatory jurisdiction of NDSWC and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The dam, owned by a private entity, has a spillway width of 120 feet and a surface area of 14.3 acres, serving as a critical infrastructure for managing water resources in Oliver County. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway ensures the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. With a condition assessment of "Not Rated" and no emergency action plan in place, the dam's risk management measures are currently unspecified.
With its strategic location and capacity to mitigate flood risks in the region, Zahn Dam; Joseph plays a vital role in safeguarding communities and infrastructure from potential water-related disasters. As a key component of the local water resource management system, the dam's design, construction, and regulatory oversight ensure its effectiveness in preserving the surrounding environment and enhancing climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
17.1 |
River Or Stream |
BRUSH CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.94 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Knife River At Hazen
|
48cfs |
Spring Creek At Zap
|
5cfs |
Knife River Nr Golden Valley
|
27cfs |
Square Butte Creek Below Center
|
2cfs |
Sweetbriar Creek Nr Judson
|
3cfs |
Big Muddy Creek Near Almont
|
10cfs |
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.
Zahn Dam; Joseph