Heley Dam; Howard Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Heley Dam in Howard, North Dakota, is a private Earth dam constructed in 1960 by the USFWS for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
With a height of 9 feet and a length of 344 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 53.1 acre-feet and a surface area of 10.5 acres. Situated on the Wild Rice River, it is regulated by the NDSWC and is considered to have low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment.
Despite being last inspected in 1993 and not currently rated for condition assessment, Heley Dam continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. With one vertical lift outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway, the dam is designed to maintain the water levels needed for fish and wildlife conservation in the area. The dam's location in Richland County, North Dakota, adds to its significance as a water resource for the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the role Heley Dam plays in supporting the local ecosystem along the Wild Rice River. As a vital infrastructure for fish and wildlife conservation, the dam not only provides storage for water but also helps regulate water flow and maintain a sustainable environment. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring this essential structure for the benefit of both wildlife and the community.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
344 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
WILD RICE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.5 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
53.1 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Heley Dam; Howard