Becker Dam; Joe 5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Becker Dam; Joe 4 Stone Man Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Becker Dam, also known as Joe 5, is a privately owned structure located in North Dakota along Porcupine Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1950 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock water supply, and a small fish pond. With a height of 21.5 feet and a length of 340 feet, Becker Dam has a storage capacity of 137.6 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12.9 acres.
The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Becker Dam is currently in a condition assessment of "Not Rated." The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 200 feet. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its last inspection dates back to July 1996, indicating a need for updated assessments and emergency action plans.
Despite its age, Becker Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing essential services for fire protection and livestock. As climate change impacts water resources, it is essential to ensure the safety and functionality of structures like Becker Dam to mitigate risks and protect communities downstream. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance will be key to safeguarding this important water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
21.5 |
River Or Stream |
PORCUPINE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.9 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
137.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cannonball River At Breien
|
96cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
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.
Becker Dam; Joe 5