Northrup Dam; Max Reservoir Report
Nearby: Williams Dam S W Bosserman Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Northrup Dam; Max is a privately owned structure located in Golden Valley, North Dakota, specifically on WILLIAMS CREEK.
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Summary
Built in 1977 by USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 21 feet high and spans 450 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 265 acre-feet. Designed primarily for irrigation purposes, the dam has a spillway width of 300 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.
The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and meets all state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Despite being last inspected in 1994, its condition is currently rated as not assessed. With an uncontrolled spillway and one other controlled outlet gate, Northrup Dam; Max serves as a vital resource for managing water resources in the area and contributes to the agricultural activities in the region.
Located in a picturesque setting with a surface area of 14.5 acres and a drainage area of 12.4 square miles, Northrup Dam; Max plays a crucial role in water management for the local community. As an enthusiast for water resources and climate, this dam provides an intriguing case study for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental management, and agricultural sustainability in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
WILLIAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.5 |
Drainage Area |
12.4 |
Nid Storage |
265 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Northrup Dam; Max