Raub Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Raub Dam, located in McLean County, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure designed by WPA and completed in 1937.


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Summary

This earth dam on Squaw Coulee serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 17.3 acres and a storage capacity of 60.5 acre-feet. With a dam height of 15 feet and a length of 530 feet, Raub Dam has a low hazard potential and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Dakota State Water Commission.

Despite its age, Raub Dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and stone core foundation contribute to its structural integrity, while the moderate risk assessment of the site reflects the management measures in place to ensure its safety. The dam has undergone modifications in 1964 to enhance its structural stability, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining this important water resource infrastructure for the community.

Raub Dam's historical significance, combined with its functional and recreational value, make it a noteworthy site for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience. As part of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Raub Dam stands as a testament to the enduring impact of New Deal-era infrastructure projects and the ongoing importance of preserving and managing our water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Years Modified

1964 - Structural

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SQUAW COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.3

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

60.5

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.