Hunter Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Elm River Deten.Dam#2 Erie Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hunter Dam, located in Cass County, North Dakota, is a crucial water resource infrastructure managed by the local government.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by NDSWC, this Earth dam stands at 25.5 feet tall, with a length of 810 feet, and serves the primary purpose of water supply for the city of Hunter. With a normal storage capacity of 390 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 711.3 acre-feet, Hunter Dam holds back the South Branch Elm River to ensure a stable water supply for the community.
The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 50 feet, helps regulate water levels during periods of high discharge. Despite being classified as having a "High" hazard potential, Hunter Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. The dam has undergone modifications in 1969 to enhance its structural integrity, and one slide (sluice gate) serves as the outlet for water release. Additionally, the dam is regularly permitted, inspected, and enforced by the NDSWC, ensuring compliance with state regulations and safety standards.
In the face of changing climate patterns and the increasing demand for water resources, Hunter Dam remains a critical infrastructure for the sustainable water supply of the local community. With its strategic location on the South Branch Elm River and its capacity to store and regulate water flow, Hunter Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding water security for the residents of Hunter. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's condition, its resilience and functionality are essential for addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring a reliable water supply for years to come.
Years Modified |
1969 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
810 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH ELM RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64 |
Drainage Area |
15.4 |
Nid Storage |
711.3 |
Structural Height |
25.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rush River At Amenia
|
5cfs |
Goose River At Hillsboro
|
27cfs |
Wild Rice River At Hendrum
|
117cfs |
Red River Of The North At Halstad
|
810cfs |
Maple River Bl Mapleton
|
35cfs |
Maple River Nr Mapleton
|
32cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hunter City Park Campground
|
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Galesburg City Campground
|
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Brewer Lake Recreation Area
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Hunter Dam