Cottonwood Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Cottonwood Creek Dam, also known as Lake Lamoure, is a significant earth dam located in LaMoure, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1973 for recreational purposes, the dam stands at a height of 52 feet with a structural height of 76 feet and a length of 1380 feet. It has a storage capacity of 16,839 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 494.1 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, the dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a spillway width of 110 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has been modified in 2010 for structural improvements. It is considered to have a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of proper risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.

Cottonwood Creek Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region, serving as a key infrastructure for recreational activities while also addressing flood control and water storage needs. With its strategic location and design, the dam continues to be a vital asset for the community, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

2010 - Structural

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1380

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

494.1

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

16839

Structural Height

76

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1, Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

76
       
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.