Gustafson Dam; Alfred Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gustafson Dam in Alfred, North Dakota, also known as Brad or Germanson Dam, was completed in 1962 by USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
This private dam stands at 31 feet high and stretches 377 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet. Situated on the Knife-TR River, it serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, covering a drainage area of 7.83 square miles.
The dam is state regulated by NDSWC, with necessary inspections and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality. It has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 149 feet, and an outlet gate consisting of a single valve. The hazard potential is considered significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite being in operation for several decades, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gustafson Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the engineering and management of a crucial irrigation structure in North Dakota. Its role in providing water for agricultural purposes underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As a privately owned dam with state oversight, Gustafson Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts required to maintain and protect our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
377 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
KNIFE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
7.83 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Knife River Nr Golden Valley
|
27cfs |
Knife River At Manning
|
2cfs |
Spring Creek At Zap
|
5cfs |
Heart River Nr Richardton
|
17cfs |
Green River Nr New Hradec
|
1cfs |
Heart River Nr South Heart
|
6cfs |
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.
Gustafson Dam; Alfred