Welch Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Solen Twp Road Dam Geiger Dam; Bill 2
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Welch Dam, located on the Cannonball River in North Dakota, was completed in 1936 and serves the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a structural height of 23 feet and a length of 350 feet, provides a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 15.5 acres. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Welch Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam has not been rated for its condition, but it meets the state jurisdiction and regulatory requirements. The last inspection of Welch Dam took place in October 2002, and the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion. Although it does not have a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is monitored for its risk management measures.
Overall, Welch Dam is a vital structure for both water resource management and recreational activities in the area. Its historical significance as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project adds to its appeal for water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the engineering feats of the past and the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and functionality of such infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
CANNONBALL RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.5 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cannonball River At Breien
|
96cfs |
Heart River At Stark Bridge Nr Judson
|
61cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Missouri River At Bismarck
|
16700cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Oceti Sakowin Camp
|
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Red Warrior Camp
|
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Sacred Stone Camp
|
Welch Dam