J. Clark Salyer #320 Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rock Dam 2 J. Clark Salyer #326 Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
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Summary
Clark Salyer #320 Dam, located in McHenry, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Completed in 1936, this Earth-type dam serves as a vital component for the conservation and management of fish and wildlife in the region, with a primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans a length of 15,575 feet, with a storage capacity of 24,624 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,186 acres.
Situated on the Souris River, the J. Clark Salyer #320 Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow, providing habitat for aquatic species, and contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition and requires attention to ensure its continued functionality. Regular inspections by the Fish and Wildlife Service help monitor the structure's integrity, with the last assessment conducted in September 2020.
As climate change impacts water resources and ecosystems, maintaining dams like J. Clark Salyer #320 becomes increasingly important. With appropriate management and investment in maintenance, this dam can continue to support biodiversity, water quality, and recreational activities for the benefit of both wildlife and the local community.
Years Modified |
1992 - Other |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
15575 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
SOURIS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3186 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
14000 |
Nid Storage |
24624 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate), Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
Willow Creek Nr Willow City
|
10cfs |
Souris River Nr Bantry
|
73cfs |
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Souris River Nr Westhope
|
28cfs |
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.
J. Clark Salyer #320 Dam