Summary
This earth dam stands at 9 feet high and has a length of 1000 feet, providing fire protection and serving as a stock or small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres, the dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 75 feet, is uncontrolled, and the hazard potential of the dam is rated as low. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition has not been officially rated, and it has not been assessed for emergency action planning. The dam's primary purpose and design make it a vital resource for water management in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the dam's history, construction, and potential impact on the surrounding environment.
While Buffalo Creek Dam may not be as large or well-known as other dams, its significance lies in its functionality for fire protection and water storage in North Dakota. With its unique features and purpose, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the local government and community, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH EGG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
26 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
Souris River Nr Bantry
|
73cfs |
Souris River Above Minot
|
5cfs |
Willow Creek Nr Willow City
|
10cfs |
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.
Buffalo Creek Dam