Froelich Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Froelich Dam, located in North Dakota along Porcupine Creek, was completed in 1962 by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC).
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Summary
This state-regulated dam, primarily used for recreation, stands at 46.1 feet high and stretches 821 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 4212.9 acre-feet, it provides ample water resources for the surrounding area while offering a surface area of 175 acres for recreational activities.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Froelich Dam has undergone structural modifications in 1987 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and is equipped with a single valve outlet gate. Regular inspections by the NDSWC confirm the dam's satisfactory condition, although it has not been officially rated. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard this vital water resource.
The presence of Froelich Dam not only enhances the region's water supply and recreational opportunities but also underscores the collaborative efforts between state agencies and the local community to manage and protect valuable water resources. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Froelich become increasingly critical in ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Years Modified |
1987 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
821 |
Dam Height |
46.1 |
River Or Stream |
PORCUPINE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
175 |
Drainage Area |
68.3 |
Nid Storage |
4212.9 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cannonball River At Breien
|
96cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
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.
Froelich Dam