White Earth Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

White Earth Dam, located in Mountrail, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure designed by NDSWC and completed in 1970 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 38 feet and a length of 1360 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 4239 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 160.2 acres. The dam, situated on the White Earth River, is regulated by the NDSWC and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet.

Despite being assessed as having a fair condition, White Earth Dam poses a high hazard potential, with a moderate risk level assigned. The dam has undergone structural modifications in 1972 and 1973. Regular inspections and enforcement by the state regulatory agency ensure that the dam meets safety standards, with emergency action plans in place. Local residents and water resource enthusiasts can enjoy recreational activities at the dam while remaining aware of its importance in managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks in the region.

Years Modified

1972 - Structural, 1973 - Structural

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1360

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

WHITE EARTH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160.2

Drainage Area

280

Nid Storage

4239

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.