Sheyenne Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bouret Dam New Rockford Rr Dam 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Eddy, North Dakota, Sheyenne Dam stands as a testament to WPA's design and construction in 1936.
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Summary
This local government-owned earth dam, standing at a height of 9 feet and stretching 300 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes on the Sheyenne River. With a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a surface area of 25 acres, the dam provides a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
The dam, regulated by the NDSWC, has undergone structural modifications in 1953, 1980, and 2008 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a drainage area of 1830 square miles. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 143 feet to manage any excess water flow. While the dam has not been rated for its current condition, it is regularly inspected by the state agency to maintain its integrity and safety standards.
For those interested in water resource management and climate impact, Sheyenne Dam offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of engineering, nature, and recreation. With its historical significance, ongoing maintenance, and environmental considerations, the dam provides a valuable case study for understanding the role of dams in sustainable water management practices. As a focal point on the scenic Sheyenne River, this earth dam invites visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty and functionality of this essential infrastructure.
Years Modified |
1953 - Structural, 1980 - Structural, 2008 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
SHEYENNE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Drainage Area |
1830 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Warsing Dam
|
||
Hendrickson Park
|
||
North Riverside Park - New Rockford
|
Sheyenne Dam