Des Lacs #2 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Des Lacs #2 Dam in North Dakota, managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, is a crucial structure along the Des Lacs River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 1425 feet, with a storage capacity of 64,000 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is to create a fish and wildlife pond, supporting the conservation efforts of the federal agency.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam underwent modifications in 2000 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. It is regularly inspected by the Fish and Wildlife Service, with the last assessment conducted in September 2020. With a maximum discharge capacity of 11,053 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Des Lacs #2 Dam to be a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure supporting both environmental conservation and water management efforts.
Years Modified |
2000 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1425 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
DES LACS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
495 |
Nid Storage |
64000 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
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 #2 Dam