Indian Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Indian Creek Dam, also known as Lake Iris, is a state-owned structure located in Hettinger, North Dakota.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1979 by NDSWC, this earth dam stands at a height of 42.5 feet and has a length of 890 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 5,648 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 236 acres for activities such as fishing and boating on Indian Creek.
The dam has been designated as a 'Significant' hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating. It is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards. The spillway of Indian Creek Dam is uncontrolled with a width of 75 feet, and it is equipped with two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates for water release. The dam is situated in a picturesque location, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate the importance of water resources and infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
In the event of emergencies, the dam does not have an emergency action plan (EAP) prepared, raising the importance of developing proper risk management measures and guidelines. With its rich history and vital role in providing recreational opportunities and water storage for the region, Indian Creek Dam stands as a symbol of the intersection between water resource management, climate resilience, and public safety in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
890 |
Dam Height |
42.5 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
236 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
5648 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
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.
Indian Creek Dam