Whitman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Whitman Dam, also known as Mid S Br Forest R #6, is a vital piece of infrastructure located in Nelson, North Dakota.


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Summary

Constructed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 48.8 feet and stretches 1200 feet in length. Serving primarily for flood risk reduction, Whitman Dam has a storage capacity of 9364 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1355.5 feet and a surface area of 143.4 acres.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the NDSWC, Whitman Dam has been inspected for structural integrity in 1974. With a significant hazard potential, this dam is currently rated as being in moderate risk, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. While its spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 300 feet, Whitman Dam features a valve outlet gate for water release.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the critical role that Whitman Dam plays in mitigating flood risks in the area. With its strategic location on the Middle Branch Forest River and its impressive storage capacity, Whitman Dam stands as a testament to effective water management and engineering practices. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and functionality, Whitman Dam remains a key asset in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential water-related disasters.

Years Modified

1974 - Structural

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

48.8

River Or Stream

MIDDLE BRANCH FOREST RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

143.4

Drainage Area

84.7

Nid Storage

9364

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
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.