Square Butte Creek Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in North Dakota, Square Butte Creek Dam 2, also known as Square Butte #2, is a crucial structure designed by USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 33.8 feet and has a length of 2400 feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area. The dam has a storage capacity of 2080 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, making it a vital asset in the management of water resources in the region.
Managed by the NDSWC and regulated by the state of North Dakota, Square Butte Creek Dam 2 is subject to inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. With a spillway width of 300 feet and a significant hazard potential, the dam plays a critical role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local community. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality.
As a key component of water resource infrastructure in the region, Square Butte Creek Dam 2 exemplifies the collaboration between local government and federal agencies in safeguarding against flood hazards. With its strategic location in Oliver County, North Dakota, and its essential role in flood risk reduction, this earth dam serves as a testament to the importance of proactive water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
33.8 |
River Or Stream |
SQUARE BUTTE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Drainage Area |
9.2 |
Nid Storage |
2080 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Square Butte Creek Dam 2
35th Avenue Southwest Oliver County