Smishek Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Vanberkom Dam Barenthsen Dam; Alvin
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Smishek Lake Dam, located in Burke, North Dakota, is a state-owned structure designed by NDSWC for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 7.4 feet and spans 800 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 3000 acre-feet. Situated on the White Earth River, this dam serves as a vital resource for water recreation enthusiasts in the area, offering a surface area of 196.7 acres for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Despite its low hazard potential, Smishek Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Dakota State Water Commission to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not been formally assessed for its condition, but it continues to provide valuable water storage and recreational opportunities for the local community. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates may pose challenges in emergency situations, but overall, it remains a key landmark in the region's water resource and climate landscape.
In the event of an emergency, the preparedness and management measures for Smishek Lake Dam are unclear, as information on its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and risk management guidelines is not readily available. However, with its long history of service since the late 1950s, the dam continues to offer a safe and enjoyable environment for water enthusiasts while supporting the surrounding ecosystem and wildlife. As climate change and water resource management become increasingly important topics, Smishek Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving challenges.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
7.4 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE EARTH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
196.7 |
Drainage Area |
19 |
Nid Storage |
3000 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Smishek Lake City Park
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Lake Park - Powers Lake
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Powers Lake City Park
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Mcgregor Dam
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Smishek Lake Dam