Vigness Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grafton Rr Dam North Salt Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Vigness Dam, also known as Riopelle Dam, is a historic masonry structure located in Oakwood, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1935 by the FERA, this dam serves the primary purpose of water supply along the Park River. Standing at a height of 18 feet and a length of 94 feet, Vigness Dam has a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 18.7 acres.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NDSWC, Vigness Dam has seen structural modifications in 1955 and 1958 to ensure its integrity. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is currently considered to be in "Not Rated" condition. While the dam does not have outlet gates, it has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 62 feet. The surrounding area is at a moderate risk level, with emergency preparedness measures being in place.
Overall, Vigness Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and continues to play a vital role in providing water supply to the community. With a rich history and a crucial function in water resource management, this dam is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainable utilization of natural resources in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
1955 - Structural, 1958 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
94 |
Dam Height |
13.5 |
River Or Stream |
PARK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
18.7 |
Drainage Area |
706 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Park River At Grafton
|
26cfs |
Forest River At Minto
|
44cfs |
Red River Of The North At Drayton
|
1650cfs |
Forest River Nr Fordville
|
32cfs |
Middle River At Argyle
|
10cfs |
Tongue River At Akra
|
53cfs |
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.
Vigness Dam