Sikes Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sikes Dam, located on the Little Knife River in Mountrail, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure under the jurisdiction of the DOI FWS.
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Summary
Completed in 1934, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 2115 feet, providing a storage capacity of 3962 acre-feet for fish and wildlife purposes. It is regulated by the NDSWC and has undergone modifications in 1994 to enhance its hydraulic and structural integrity.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Sikes Dam poses a very high risk due to its location and the potential impact of a failure. Despite this, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is inspected every five years to ensure its continued safety. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 62 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 6207 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial infrastructure for managing water resources in the region.
As a vital component of the local ecosystem, Sikes Dam not only serves as a water resource but also plays a significant role in maintaining the biodiversity of the area. Its controlled spillway and stone core construction reflect the commitment to sustainable water management practices. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Sikes Dam to be a fascinating example of how infrastructure can harmonize with nature for the benefit of both wildlife and the community.
Years Modified |
1994 - Hydraulic, 1994 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
2115 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Little Knife |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
62 |
Nid Storage |
3962 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Sikes Dam