Nygaard Dam; Peter A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Nygaard Dam, also known as Peter A, is a privately owned earth dam located in McKenzie County, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond. Situated on Charbonneau Creek, the dam has a height of 16 feet and a length of 466 feet, with a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Nygaard Dam is regulated and inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission. The spillway, with a width of 198 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure. The dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," indicating further evaluation may be needed to determine its structural integrity.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, Nygaard Dam is monitored for any potential risks or hazards that may arise. While the dam currently meets regulatory guidelines, ongoing risk management measures may be necessary to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As an essential resource for water management in the area, Nygaard Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various uses in the region.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

466

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

CHARBONNEAU CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.76

Nid Storage

93

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.