Paulson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bartelson Dam; Neil Peterson Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Paulson Dam, also known as Plaza Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Mountrail County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. It has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission.
The dam, situated on the East Fork Shell Creek-TR stream, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam is subject to state inspection, regulation, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and functionality. While it has not been modified in recent years, the risk assessment deems it to have a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures.
Overall, Paulson Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resource management and protection in the region. With its historical significance and operational functionality, it remains a key asset for the community, contributing to fire protection, livestock support, and ecological conservation efforts. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the unique design and purpose of this local government-owned structure, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
EAST FORK SHELL CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Paulson Dam