Swan Buffalo Det D# 8 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Swan Buffalo Det D# 5 Maple River Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Swan Buffalo Det D# 8, also known as Embden Dam, is a vital structure located in Cass County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves as a critical flood risk reduction measure along Buffalo Creek. Standing at a height of 31.5 feet and with a length of 1275 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 3936.9 acre-feet and a normal storage of 411.8 acre-feet. It covers a surface area of 86.5 acres and has a drainage area of 38 square miles.
Managed by the local government and regulated by NDSWC, Swan Buffalo Det D# 8 has a spillway width of 300 feet and is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite being rated as not assessed for condition, the dam is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Overall, Swan Buffalo Det D# 8 plays a crucial role in protecting the area from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of well-maintained water infrastructure in climate resilience efforts. With its strategic location and design, this dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and designers in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1275 |
Dam Height |
31.5 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
86.5 |
Drainage Area |
38 |
Nid Storage |
3936.9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
Maple River Nr Mapleton
|
32cfs |
Rush River At Amenia
|
5cfs |
Maple River Bl Mapleton
|
35cfs |
Sheyenne R Ab Sheyenne R Diversion Nr Horace
|
295cfs |
Sheyenne River Near Kindred
|
337cfs |
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# 8