Kolding Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Kolding Dam, also known as Upper Turtle R.Fldr #6, is a significant earth dam located in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along Whisky Creek-TR. Standing at a height of 70.5 feet with a length of 3455 feet, Kolding Dam has a normal storage capacity of 73.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9.8 acres.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NDSWC, Kolding Dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a spillway width of 300 feet and a hazard potential rated as significant, this dam is designed to withstand moderate risk levels and has not been formally assessed for its current condition. Although no outlet gates are present, Kolding Dam continues to be an essential structure in the region's water resource and climate management efforts.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be drawn to Kolding Dam for its historical significance and engineering marvels. As a key piece of infrastructure in flood risk reduction, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its critical role in protecting the local community and surrounding areas, Kolding Dam exemplifies the intersection of technology, nature, and human ingenuity in safeguarding our environment against the impacts of climate change.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
3455 |
Dam Height |
70.5 |
River Or Stream |
WHISKY CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.8 |
Drainage Area |
11.2 |
Nid Storage |
1983 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
71 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Kolding Dam