Gascoyne Township Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gascoyne Township Dam, located in Bowman, North Dakota, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Constructed in 1936 by USFWS and WPA, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans a length of 425 feet, with a storage capacity of 305.2 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by NDSWC and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3.
Despite its modest size and low hazard potential, Gascoyne Township Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the region. With a surface area of 30 acres and a drainage area of 4.55 square miles, the dam helps to regulate water levels in Dry Coulee and provides essential water resources for local fire protection and agricultural activities. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, measuring 50 feet in width, ensures proper water flow during periods of high precipitation.
Gascoyne Township Dam's historical significance, combined with its ongoing role in water management and environmental conservation, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring these essential infrastructure assets. As a key component of the local government's water resource strategy, the dam stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of New Deal-era public works projects and continues to serve the community with its vital functions in mitigating flood risks and supporting sustainable water use practices.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
425 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
DRY COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
4.55 |
Nid Storage |
305.2 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Gascoyne Township Dam