Blabon Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lynch Dam Upper Maple River Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Blabon Dam 2, located in Steele, North Dakota, was completed in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earthen dam, standing at a height of 13 feet and spanning 500 feet in length, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, livestock watering, and small-scale fish pond management. The dam has a storage capacity of 314 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 122 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 30 acres and draining a 1.52 square mile watershed area.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), Blabon Dam 2 is primarily regulated by the state, with inspections and enforcement carried out as necessary to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 65 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water flow during periods of excess runoff. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam underwent structural modifications in 1963 to enhance its resilience.
While the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," its overall risk assessment is moderate. With no outlet gates and a last inspection date in 1974, there is a need for updated assessment and potential risk management measures to address any vulnerabilities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blabon Dam 2 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of historical infrastructure, water management practices, and the ongoing challenges of maintaining critical assets in the face of evolving environmental conditions.
Years Modified |
1963 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
GOOSE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Drainage Area |
1.52 |
Nid Storage |
314 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple River Nr Hope
|
0cfs |
Sheyenne River Nr Cooperstown
|
179cfs |
Goose River Near Portland
|
18cfs |
Baldhill Creek Nr Dazey
|
7cfs |
Sheyenne River Below Baldhill Dam
|
169cfs |
Goose River At Hillsboro
|
27cfs |
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.
Blabon Dam 2