Burlington Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Burlington Dam #1, located in Ward County, North Dakota, along the Des Lacs River, was completed in 1935 by the NDRRC and is owned by the local government.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a structural height of 27 feet, with a length of 1112 feet. The dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 566.9 acre-feet and a normal storage of 206.8 acre-feet.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, Burlington Dam #1 poses some risk according to the data, with a high risk assessment rating of 2. The dam is not under the jurisdiction of a federal agency and does not have a spillway, lock, or any associated structures. It is maintained by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality for the local community.

Overall, Burlington Dam #1 serves as a vital irrigation resource for the area, with a focus on water management and agricultural needs. Its historical significance, combined with its ongoing state-regulated status, highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

1112

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

DES LACS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38.3

Drainage Area

629

Nid Storage

566.9

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.