Coulee Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Coulee Dam, located in McKenzie, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a recreational hub along Bear Den Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), this earth dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and spans 316 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, the dam primarily caters to recreational purposes and has a spillway width of 57 feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), indicating the need for careful monitoring and management.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), Coulee Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While it does not have any associated locks or outlet gates, the dam boasts stone core and soil foundation construction. Although its condition is currently unrated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are not specified. With a designated emergency contact and inundation maps yet to be prepared, the dam's risk potential underscores the importance of prioritizing safety protocols and regular assessments in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges.
Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Coulee Dam serves as a testament to New Deal-era infrastructure projects aimed at promoting recreation and water resource utilization. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the historical significance and contemporary management of Coulee Dam provides insights into the intersection of environmental stewardship, engineering innovation, and public safety. With its unique design features, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment considerations, this dam embodies the resilience and adaptability needed to address evolving climate impacts on water infrastructure in North Dakota and beyond.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
316 |
Dam Height |
14.5 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR DEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Coulee Dam