Olson Dam; Oakley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Egeland Dam; Craig Road Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Olson Dam in Oakley, North Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 627 feet, providing a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. Situated on Five Mile Creek in Bowman County, this low hazard dam has a spillway width of 30 feet and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission.
Despite its low hazard potential, Olson Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and livestock in the region. With a moderate risk assessment, the dam serves as a reliable asset for water management in the area. Managed and inspected by state regulatory agencies, this dam ensures the safety and functionality of its structure for the community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Olson Dam in Oakley, not only for its functional purposes but also for its contribution to the local ecosystem. As a key infrastructure for water storage and conservation, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining the balance of natural resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
627 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
FIVE MILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Olson Dam; Oakley