Aarestad Dam, located in Elton, North Dakota, was completed in 1962 by USDA NRCS and is privately owned. The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection and providing water for stock or small fish ponds. With a height of 10 feet and a length of 1000 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 484 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 61 acres. It is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is categorized as having a low hazard potential.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Aarestad Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The spillway of the dam is uncontrolled and has a width of 80 feet. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3 out of 5. The dam is situated on the James-TR river/stream within Eddy County, North Dakota, and falls under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Aarestad Dam can appreciate its role in providing essential water resources for fire protection and livestock, as well as its contribution to local fish habitats. The dam's design and construction by USDA NRCS ensure its structural integrity, while its state regulation and enforcement measures help to mitigate potential risks. With its location in a picturesque setting and its importance in water management, Aarestad Dam stands as a notable example of sustainable water infrastructure in North Dakota.