Des Lacs #4 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Des Lacs #4 Dam, located in Ward County, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Built in 1935, this Earth-type dam serves primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, supporting the conservation efforts of the Department of Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service. The dam has a height of 10 feet, a length of 5166 feet, and a storage capacity of 8828 acre-feet, regulating the flow of the Des Lacs River.
Despite its low hazard potential, Des Lacs #4 Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of September 2020. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in September 2020, and the dam is regulated, permitted, and inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission. The dam has undergone modifications in 2009 to improve its hydraulic capabilities, and it is equipped with Other Controlled outlet gates for water release.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Des Lacs #4 Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of wildlife conservation and water management. As efforts continue to maintain and improve the dam's infrastructure, its role in supporting the local ecosystem and water resources in the Des Lacs River watershed remains crucial.
Years Modified |
2009 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
5166 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
DES LACS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
495 |
Nid Storage |
8828 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Des Lacs #4 Dam