Kratochvil Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Soukup Dam Bylin Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Kratochvil Dam, also known as N Br Forest R Det Dam 3, is a local government-owned structure in Fordville, North Dakota, designed by USDA NRCS and regulated by NDSWC.
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Summary
Completed in 1962, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 790 feet along the North Branch Forest River. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 75.63 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 2837 acre-feet.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet and vertical lift outlet gates. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have moderate risk with a moderate (3) risk assessment rating. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, and the last inspection took place in June 2013. While the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not specified, the dam's overall risk is being monitored to ensure public safety and effective flood risk reduction in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kratochvil Dam presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure and flood risk management. The collaborative effort between local government, USDA NRCS, and regulatory agencies like NDSWC highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of vital water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, dams like Kratochvil play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities along the North Branch Forest River.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
790 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH BRANCH FOREST RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31.63 |
Nid Storage |
2837 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Forest River Nr Fordville
|
32cfs |
Edmore Coulee Nr Edmore
|
38cfs |
Park River At Grafton
|
26cfs |
Edmore Coulee Trib Nr Webster
|
50cfs |
Forest River At Minto
|
44cfs |
Tongue River At Akra
|
53cfs |
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.
Kratochvil Dam