Fargo 12th Ave. N. Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Fargo 12th Ave.


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Summary

N. Dam, located in Cass County, North Dakota, is a vital structure managed by the City of Fargo for water supply purposes along the Red River. This masonry dam, completed in 1933, stands at a height of 7.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 6,800 acres. With a spillway width of 108 feet and a hazard potential rated as low, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam has undergone structural modifications in 1968 and 1981 to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the Fargo 12th Ave. N. Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Dakota State Water Commission. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

In conclusion, the Fargo 12th Ave. N. Dam is a key infrastructure element in the region's water management system, providing essential services for water supply while being subject to regulatory oversight and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safety standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a critical component of the local landscape, serving as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Years Modified

1968 - Structural, 1981 - Structural

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

206

Dam Height

7.7

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

6800

Nid Storage

183

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.