Makelky Dam; Bob Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Makelky Dam, also known as Bob, is a private earth dam located in Golden Valley, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1998 by the USFWS, this dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, primarily for conservation purposes. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 340 feet, Makelky Dam has a storage capacity of 99.4 acre-feet, providing essential habitat for aquatic life in the area.

Managed by the NDSWC, Makelky Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 90 feet and a vertical lift outlet gate. The area surrounding the dam covers 8.35 acres, with a drainage area of 6.9 acres, creating a sustainable ecosystem for wildlife in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Makelky Dam plays a critical role in the conservation efforts of the surrounding area. With its focus on fish and wildlife preservation, this dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like Makelky Dam in ensuring the sustainability of our natural environment becomes increasingly evident.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

ANDREWS CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.35

Drainage Area

6.9

Nid Storage

99.4

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.