Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to provide fire protection and serve as a small fish pond, making it a vital resource for the local community in New Rockford.
Maintained by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), Fessenden Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the last inspection dates back to 1970, the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1953 and 1958. Despite its age, Fessenden Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core foundation, Fessenden Dam exemplifies a historic yet functional piece of infrastructure designed to protect and sustain the surrounding environment. As climate change impacts water resources, the significance of dams like Fessenden in maintaining water supply and ecosystem health becomes increasingly apparent. As enthusiasts for water resources and climate adaptation, Fessenden Dam stands as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to manage and safeguard our natural resources for future generations.
Years Modified |
1953 - Structural, 1958 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
86 |
Drainage Area |
7310 |
Nid Storage |
430 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Fessenden Dam