Valley City Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Valley City Mill Dam, located in Barnes County, North Dakota, is a historic concrete dam built in 1882 by NDSWC to serve as a vital water supply structure for the area.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24 feet and spanning a length of 70 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 317 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 43.6 acres. Situated on the Sheyenne River, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and supporting local water supply needs.

Despite its age, Valley City Mill Dam remains in good condition with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating of 1. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 20 feet and a Tainter (radial) outlet gate. It has undergone structural modifications in 1964, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. The dam is owned and regulated by the local government, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to maintain its integrity and performance.

Valley City Mill Dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resource management in the region. With its rich history, solid construction, and essential role in water supply, this dam serves as a valuable asset for the community and a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources and climate resilience.

Years Modified

1964 - Structural

Year Completed

1882

Dam Length

70

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

SHEYENNE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

43.6

Drainage Area

7810

Nid Storage

317

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.