Des Lacs Dam 3 (Nwr) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Des Lacs Dam 3, located in Kenmare, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure designed by USFWS with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 4845 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 366.4 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Des Lacs River-TR and is regulated by the state, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Des Lacs Dam 3 plays a vital role in water resource management in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a vertical lift outlet gate, ensuring proper water flow and management. Despite its age, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, indicating a need for further assessment and maintenance to ensure its long-term resilience and functionality for fish and wildlife conservation efforts.
Des Lacs Dam 3 serves as a key structure for maintaining water levels and creating a habitat for various species of fish and wildlife in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of such structures in preserving ecosystems and supporting biodiversity cannot be overstated. As enthusiasts in water resource and climate issues, it is crucial to monitor and support the upkeep of infrastructure like Des Lacs Dam 3 to ensure the sustainable management of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
4845 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
DES LACS RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
56.8 |
Drainage Area |
78 |
Nid Storage |
366.4 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Souris River Nr Sherwood
|
30cfs |
Des Lacs River At Foxholm
|
1cfs |
Souris River Nr Foxholm
|
0cfs |
White Earth River At White Earth
|
10cfs |
Souris River Above Minot
|
5cfs |
Long Creek Nr Noonan
|
15cfs |
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 Dam 3 (Nwr)