Swan Buffalo Det D# 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Swan Buffalo Det D# 5, also known as Buffalo Dam or Garsteig Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Mapleton, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a length of 1072 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along Buffalo Creek-TR. With a storage capacity of 2019.7 acre-feet and a surface area of 30.8 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the NDSWC, Swan Buffalo Det D# 5 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of North Dakota, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated. The dam has undergone modifications in 1968 to enhance its structural stability, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its effectiveness in flood control and water management.
With a spillway width of 300 feet and no outlet gates, Swan Buffalo Det D# 5 has a moderate risk assessment rating. Although emergency preparedness measures such as EAPs and inundation maps are not currently in place, the dam continues to meet regulatory guidelines and plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from the impacts of flooding. As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, this dam serves as a critical asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.
Years Modified |
1968 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
1072 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30.8 |
Drainage Area |
30.4 |
Nid Storage |
2019.7 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rush River At Amenia
|
5cfs |
Maple River Nr Mapleton
|
32cfs |
Maple River Bl Mapleton
|
35cfs |
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
Sheyenne River Diversion At West Fargo
|
1cfs |
Sheyenne River At West Fargo
|
229cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Swan Buffalo Det D# 5