Heinze Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Heinze Dam, located in Barnes, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 450 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 262 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage level of 97 acre-feet.

The dam, situated on the Sheyenne River, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While it has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently not rated. Despite this, the risk assessment for Heinze Dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Heinze Dam is a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts in North Dakota.

Overall, Heinze Dam is a vital water resource and recreational site in North Dakota, offering both practical benefits and natural beauty. As a well-maintained earth dam with a low hazard potential, it provides a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape and waterways. While the dam's risk assessment suggests a moderate level of concern, its ongoing management and inspection demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of this valuable resource for years to come.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

SHEYENNE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.2

Drainage Area

7.38

Nid Storage

262

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.