Olson Fish Dam; Willard Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Olson Fish Dam in Willard, North Dakota, is a local government-owned earth dam built in 1969 by USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Located on Beaver Creek, the dam stands at a height of 46.5 feet and has a structural height of 50 feet, with a length of 330 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 412 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 660 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 28.9 acres and serves a drainage area of 6.37 square miles.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 200 feet and is categorized as having a low hazard potential. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk assessment for Olson Fish Dam is moderate. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspection, permitting, and enforcement by state regulatory agencies. Despite its age, the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an emergency action plan in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Olson Fish Dam presents an interesting case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its moderate risk level and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness for earth dams in recreational areas. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and stability of dams like Olson Fish Dam will be crucial in mitigating potential risks and protecting local communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
46.5 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28.9 |
Drainage Area |
6.37 |
Nid Storage |
660 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
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.
Olson Fish Dam; Willard