Howie Du Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Howie Du Dam, located in New England, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Forest Service for the primary purpose of Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1989, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet, with a surface area of 26 acres. The dam is situated on Philbrick Creek and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, recreation, and fish and wildlife habitat.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Howie Du Dam has not been rated for its current condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and is inspected every 10 years by the Forest Service. Despite its relatively small drainage area of 3 square miles, the dam is an important feature for the local ecosystem and provides essential support for wildlife in the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Howie Du Dam to be a fascinating structure, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in supporting biodiversity and recreational activities. As a federal-owned facility, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the region and highlights the collaborative efforts between government agencies to ensure the safety and functionality of such vital infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

689

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

PHILBRICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

156

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.