Lake Patricia Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Flasher Dam Meyer Dam; Walter A
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Patricia Dam, located in Morton, North Dakota, serves as a crucial water resource for the area, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 906 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
With a surface area of 382 acres and a drainage area of 67.3 square miles, Lake Patricia Dam is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and climate activists alike. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a relatively safe structure, although it was modified in 1951 for structural improvements. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to provide essential water management services while also offering recreational opportunities for the community. The uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates reflect the dam's simple yet effective design, emphasizing its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Years Modified |
1951 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Height |
12.1 |
River Or Stream |
CHANTA PETA CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
382 |
Drainage Area |
67.3 |
Nid Storage |
906 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Lake Patricia Dam