Burns-Wretling Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Burns-Wretling Dam, located in Oliver County, North Dakota, was completed in 1963 by USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial resource for fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, is regulated by the NDSWC and falls under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, highlighting its importance for water resource management in the area.
Situated on the Missouri-Tr River, Burns-Wretling Dam has a surface area of 6.7 acres and a spillway width of 55 feet. While it does not have outlet gates, the dam plays a vital role in providing water for various purposes in the region. The dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, but it meets state guidelines and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and efficiency for the surrounding community. With its strategic location and design, Burns-Wretling Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in North Dakota.
Despite its modest size, Burns-Wretling Dam plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and economy, providing essential water resources for both wildlife and agricultural activities. As a privately-owned structure, the dam serves as a model for responsible water use and conservation efforts in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for water supply and management, Burns-Wretling Dam serves as a valuable asset for both water resource enthusiasts and climate conservation advocates alike.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
MISSOURI-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.7 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Square Butte Creek Below Center
|
2cfs |
Knife River At Hazen
|
48cfs |
Sweetbriar Creek Nr Judson
|
3cfs |
Heart River Nr Mandan
|
101cfs |
Burnt Creek Nr Bismarck
|
9cfs |
Spring Creek At Zap
|
5cfs |
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.
Burns-Wretling Dam
State Highway 200 Alternate Oliver County