Becker Dam; Joe 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Becker Dam, also known as Joe 4, is a privately owned earth dam located in Sioux County, North Dakota.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1950 by USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 14.8 feet and a length of 350 feet, Becker Dam has a storage capacity of 50.3 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres.

Managed by the NDSWC, Becker Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state of North Dakota. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and a drainage area of 0.55 square miles. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a moderate risk due to its condition assessment not being rated. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in July 1996.

Located on Porcupine Creek, Becker Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change will find the details of this dam's design and functionality intriguing, as well as the ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With its historical significance and environmental impact, Becker Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management in addressing water-related challenges.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

14.8

River Or Stream

PORCUPINE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

50.3

Structural Height

14.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.