Raleigh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Raleigh Dam, located in Grant County, North Dakota, serves as a vital recreational resource along Dogtooth Creek, boasting a height of 48.2 feet and a length of 860 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1910, this earth dam provides a serene surface area of 67.4 acres and a normal storage capacity of 804.9 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential, the dam underwent modifications in 1988 to enhance its foundation, hydraulic, and structural components.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Raleigh Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 125 feet and outlet gates including two slide (sluice) gates and one valve. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the condition of Raleigh Dam is currently not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its integrity and safeguard against potential hazards.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Raleigh Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable dam management in preserving natural landscapes and enhancing recreational opportunities. With its rich history dating back over a century, this earth dam continues to provide a picturesque setting for outdoor activities while serving a crucial role in water storage and flood control along Dogtooth Creek in the heart of North Dakota.

Years Modified

1988 - Foundation, 1988 - Hydraulic, 1988 - Structural

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

48.2

River Or Stream

DOGTOOTH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

67.4

Drainage Area

7.68

Nid Storage

2068

Structural Height

53.5

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

54
       
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.