Des Lacs City Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Des Lacs City Dam, located in North Dakota, was completed in 1964 and serves as a vital resource for recreational activities in the area.


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Summary

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a structural height of 38 feet. It is situated on Lloyd's Coulee, offering a surface area of 20.1 acres and a drainage area of 10 acres. With a normal storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 300 acre-feet, the dam provides a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking outdoor adventures.

Despite its low hazard potential, Des Lacs City Dam is subject to regular inspections and state regulations to ensure its safety and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 16 feet, is designed as uncontrolled to manage water overflow effectively. While the dam itself is not currently rated for condition assessment, the risk level is classified as moderate. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to address any potential threats, reflecting the commitment to maintaining the dam's integrity and safeguarding the surrounding community. Des Lacs City Dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering a tranquil setting for recreation and environmental appreciation.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

LLOYDS COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.1

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.