Atkinson Dam; Wayde 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Atkinson Dam, also known as Wayde 1, is a private-owned structure located in Adams County, North Dakota.


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Summary

Constructed in 1998 by the USFWS, this Earth-type dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along Cedar Creek-TR. With a height of 19 feet and a length of 410 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 101.8 acre-feet, catering to a surface area of 11 acres.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 45 feet and vertical lift outlet gates. Its purpose primarily focuses on providing habitat for fish and wildlife, contributing to the conservation efforts in the region. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. The risk assessment for Atkinson Dam is moderate, indicating the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures.

Overall, Atkinson Dam plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems and wildlife in North Dakota. Its strategic location and design contribute to the conservation and management of water resources in the area, making it a significant structure for water and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and study. As efforts to enhance the dam's safety and functionality continue, it remains an essential asset for promoting biodiversity and environmental sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

3.9

Nid Storage

101.8

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.