Swan Buffalo Det D#12 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Swan Buffalo Det D# 5 Erie Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Swan Buffalo Det D#12, also known as Absaraka Dam, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Cass County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.5 feet and spans 1700 feet along Swan Creek. With a storage capacity of 1615.5 acre-feet, it serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NDSWC, Swan Buffalo Det D#12 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community from significant hazard potential. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk assessment score of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. Although no outlet gates are present, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet, ensuring effective water discharge during high flow conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Swan Buffalo Det D#12 serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities in mitigating flood risks and protecting vital infrastructure. Its presence along Swan Creek not only provides flood protection but also contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. As an essential piece of infrastructure with a significant impact on public safety, the ongoing management and maintenance of this dam are crucial for ensuring the well-being of the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
27.5 |
River Or Stream |
SWAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29.8 |
Drainage Area |
13.7 |
Nid Storage |
1615.5 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rush River At Amenia
|
5cfs |
Maple River Nr Mapleton
|
32cfs |
Maple River Bl Mapleton
|
35cfs |
Sheyenne River Diversion At West Fargo
|
1cfs |
Sheyenne River At West Fargo
|
229cfs |
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
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.
Swan Buffalo Det D#12