Summary
This earth dam, primarily used for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond, spans 300 feet in length and reaches a height of 8 feet. With a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and a surface area of 16 acres, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, the Fertile Valley Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its condition and lacks an emergency action plan, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to uphold its integrity.
The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 150 feet, allows for controlled release of water during periods of excess flow. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have outlet gates, it remains a key structure for water storage and management in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for fire protection and agricultural purposes, the Fertile Valley Dam embodies the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in sustaining water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BRUSH CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Fertile Valley Dam