Lien Dam; Leonard (South) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lien Dam; Leonard (South) in North Dakota is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1966 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 300 feet, creating a storage capacity of 141.2 acre-feet on Indian Creek. With a spillway width of 100 feet and low hazard potential, the dam provides moderate risk management measures for the surrounding area.
Located in Hettinger, North Dakota, this dam offers a surface area of 18 acres and a drainage area of 5 square miles for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Operated and inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but is considered to have a moderate risk level. Despite lacking an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), the dam meets regulatory guidelines and ensures public safety through its recreational use and controlled spillway system.
With Kelly Armstrong as the Congressman for the district, Lien Dam; Leonard (South) serves as a vital water resource for the community, providing both recreational opportunities and risk management measures. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the role of state-regulated dams like Lien Dam in preserving water quality, managing flood risks, and enhancing outdoor recreation experiences in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
141.2 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Lien Dam; Leonard (South)