Lehr Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lehr Dam, located in McIntosh County, North Dakota, is a local government-owned earth dam constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 15 feet and spanning 150 feet in length, this dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 147 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 110 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1943 to enhance its safety and performance.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Lehr Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its compliance with safety standards. Although the dam is classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it poses a moderate risk level of 3 on a scale. With no outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam presents minimal risks to surrounding areas. While the dam lacks certain emergency preparedness measures like an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, its risk management measures are under review to address potential safety concerns.

Overall, Lehr Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the area, offering opportunities for water-based activities and leisure. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the dam's condition and risk level to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With ongoing assessments and management measures in place, Lehr Dam continues to play a significant role in water management and recreation in McIntosh County.

Years Modified

1943 - Structural

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

MISSOURI RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

3.91

Nid Storage

147

Outlet Gates

None

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.