Berckerley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hansen Dam Stoney Slough Pool 3-4-5
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Berckerley Dam, also known as Jarvis Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Barnes, North Dakota.
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Summary
Completed in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this earth dam serves primarily for fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond. With a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures.
Situated on the Sheyenne River, the Berckerley Dam has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is constructed with a stone core and soil foundation. While it does not have outlet gates or associated structures, the dam is designed to meet the needs of the local community for water resource management and emergency preparedness. With a risk management plan in place, the dam ensures the safety and stability of the surrounding area in the event of a potential hazard.
Managed by the local government and with oversight from the NDSWC, Berckerley Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for the region's water resource management. With its historical significance and functional purposes, the dam continues to serve the community for fire protection, stock watering, and recreational activities. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the intricate details of this dam's design and purpose make it a fascinating structure worth exploring and understanding in the context of North Dakota's water management efforts.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SHEYENNE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
6.5 |
Nid Storage |
152 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sheyenne River Below Baldhill Dam
|
169cfs |
James River At Jamestown
|
205cfs |
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
Baldhill Creek Nr Dazey
|
7cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
Sheyenne River At Lisbon
|
222cfs |
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.
Berckerley Dam