Sarnia Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Whitman Dam Matejcek Dam
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Sarnia Dam, located in Nelson, North Dakota, is a crucial structure designed by SWC & USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction on the Middle Branch Forest River.
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Summary
Completed in 1936, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and stretches 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1610 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is state-regulated by NDSWC and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its structural integrity.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and has not been modified since 1981. Although it lacks outlet gates, Sarnia Dam serves its primary purpose effectively and has a normal storage capacity of 1 acre-foot. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 26.6 square miles, contributing to its flood risk reduction efforts. With a congressman representative of Kelly Armstrong (R), the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the local community from potential water-related disasters.
Sarnia Dam, a locally owned structure in North Dakota, exemplifies the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, it is essential to recognize the significance of such infrastructure in safeguarding communities and natural ecosystems against the impacts of flooding. With its strategic location and efficient design, Sarnia Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies and designers in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.
Years Modified |
1981 - Foundation, 1981 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE BRANCH FOREST RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
26.6 |
Nid Storage |
1610 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Sarnia Dam