Ruff-Nik Wma-North Pool Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ruff-Nik Wma-North Pool is a state-regulated fish and wildlife pond located in Todd County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Designed by Ducks Unlimited, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8 feet and provides a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet. With a surface area of 55 acres and a drainage area of 0.67 square miles, this pond plays a vital role in supporting aquatic habitats and biodiversity in the region.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Ruff-Nik Wma-North Pool serves as a haven for various wildlife species, thanks to its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment. The dam's primary purpose is to enhance the local ecosystem and provide essential water resources for the surrounding area. With a history dating back to an unspecified completion year, this structure serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management and conservation efforts.

Situated along the Little Elk River, this impressive water resource project exemplifies the collaborative efforts between state agencies and conservation organizations to protect and preserve natural habitats. With its strategic location in Cushing, Minnesota, Ruff-Nik Wma-North Pool stands as a model for responsible dam construction and management practices, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem and climate resilience in the region.

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

LITTLE ELK RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Drainage Area

0.67

Nid Storage

147

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.