Wilson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wilson Dam in North Dakota, situated on the South Fork Maple River, stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission, this earth dam was completed in 1968 for recreational purposes. With a height of 24.5 feet and a storage capacity of 828.2 acre-feet, Wilson Dam provides essential flood control and water storage benefits to the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Wilson Dam underwent structural modifications in 1989 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and a single valve outlet gate. The risk assessment for Wilson Dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and protect the local community and environment.
With its strategic location and vital role in water management, Wilson Dam serves as a critical infrastructure asset for North Dakota. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resources, the dam's resilience and ability to adapt to changing conditions make it an essential component of the state's water infrastructure network.
Years Modified |
1989 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1690 |
Dam Height |
24.5 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK MAPLE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
58.6 |
Drainage Area |
7.83 |
Nid Storage |
828.2 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
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.
Wilson Dam