Faul-Mathison Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Wells, North Dakota, the Faul-Mathison Dam is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1971 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

With a height of 29 feet and a length of 330 feet, this Earth-type dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and habitat for various species in the area. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, making it a vital component in the management of water resources in the region.

Situated on the James-TR river, the Faul-Mathison Dam has a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 38 acre-feet. The dam boasts an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 192 feet, ensuring the safe release of excess water during high flow events. While the dam has not been inspected recently and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it continues to serve as a key feature in the local landscape, supporting both wildlife conservation efforts and recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.

Although the Faul-Mathison Dam is not regulated by the state of North Dakota, it remains an important structure for water resource management and climate enthusiasts. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance the needs of wildlife conservation and recreational enjoyment in the region. As discussions around water resources and climate change continue to evolve, the Faul-Mathison Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in supporting sustainable practices and preserving natural habitats for future generations.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

JAMES-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

2.34

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.
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