Harvey Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Harvey Dam, located in Wells County, North Dakota, is a vital water supply structure with a primary purpose of providing water to the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built in 1920 by NDSWC & SOO LINE RR, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.8 feet and has a structural height of 35 feet, with a length of 690 feet. It has a storage capacity of 7646 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 2700 acre-feet, serving as a crucial resource for the region.

The dam, situated on the Sheyenne River, is regulated by the NDSWC and is inspected and maintained by the state regulatory agency. With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, it is essential for emergency preparedness and risk management measures to be in place. The structure has undergone modifications in 1967 and 1990 to enhance its structural integrity, ensuring its continued effectiveness in water supply management.

Despite its age, Harvey Dam remains a key component of the local water infrastructure, playing a crucial role in water supply for the community. With its controlled spillway, outlet gates, and strategic location on the river, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1967 - Structural, 1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

30.8

River Or Stream

SHEYENNE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

360

Drainage Area

534

Nid Storage

7646

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.