Elm River No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Elm River No.
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Summary
1, also known as Steel County Dam, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Galesburg, North Dakota. Built in 1964 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 4035 feet along the Middle Branch Elm River. With a storage capacity of 5187.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 48.2 acres, Elm River No. 1 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Elm River No. 1 is subject to routine inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 300 feet, and while its hazard potential is considered significant, its risk assessment has been rated as moderate. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, Elm River No. 1 remains a key asset for flood control in the region, with a primary purpose of mitigating flood risks for the community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elm River No. 1 serves as a notable example of how infrastructure plays a crucial role in managing and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events. With its strategic location and design, this earth dam not only helps regulate water flow along the Elm River but also provides valuable storage capacity during periods of high water levels. As a key component of the local flood risk reduction strategy, Elm River No. 1 highlights the importance of proactive planning and maintenance in safeguarding communities against the threats posed by changing climate patterns and increasing flood risks.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
4035 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE BRANCH ELM RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48.2 |
Drainage Area |
41.7 |
Nid Storage |
5187.6 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River Nr Hope
|
0cfs |
Goose River Near Portland
|
18cfs |
Goose River At Hillsboro
|
27cfs |
Rush River At Amenia
|
5cfs |
Sheyenne River Nr Cooperstown
|
179cfs |
Red River Of The North At Halstad
|
810cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Galesburg City Campground
|
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Hope City Park
|
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Page City Park Campground
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Elm River No. 1