Stanley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Stanley Dam, located on the Little Knife River in Mountrail, North Dakota, is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 20.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,720 acre-feet, primarily used for water supply purposes. With a surface area of 253 acres and a normal storage capacity of 1,550 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Stanley Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and has not been modified in recent years. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, and it is under the jurisdiction of the North Dakota State Water Commission for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a focus on water supply and serving as a local government-owned structure, Stanley Dam serves as a key component in the water infrastructure of the area, ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the region.
As a significant water supply structure in North Dakota, Stanley Dam provides essential water storage and management capabilities for the surrounding area. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam has been serving its purpose effectively since its completion in 1968. Despite its hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, indicating the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term reliability. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, and with the North Dakota State Water Commission overseeing its regulation and operations, Stanley Dam remains a crucial asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
860 |
Dam Height |
20.5 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE KNIFE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
253 |
Drainage Area |
22 |
Nid Storage |
3720 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Stanley Dam