Depuy Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Arrowwood Nwr Jim Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Depuy Dam, located in Stutsman, North Dakota, along the James River, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the U.S.
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Summary
Department of Agriculture and the USBR. Completed in 1937, the dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a primary purpose of wildlife conservation. Standing at a height of 15 feet and a length of 1200 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1492 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 293 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Depuy Dam has undergone several modifications over the years to enhance its hydraulic and structural integrity, with the most recent updates made in 2006. The dam is regulated by the Fish and Wildlife Service, which also conducts inspections and operations. With a drainage area of 770 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 4722 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding ecosystem.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Depuy Dam offers a fascinating example of how infrastructure can be utilized for conservation purposes. Its role as a wildlife habitat and its contributions to flood control and water storage make it a valuable asset in sustaining the ecological balance of the region. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts, Depuy Dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the natural environment while serving as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Years Modified |
1945 - Hydraulic, 1958 - Other, 1964 - Hydraulic, 1979 - Hydraulic, 1992 - Other, 2006 - Hydraulic, 2006 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
293 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
770 |
Nid Storage |
1492 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Smokeys Campsite and Landing
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Pelican Point Landing - Jamestown Lake
|
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Spiritwood Lake/Sandy Beach
|
||
Shady Cove Co Park
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||
Parkhurst - Pipestem Lake
|
Depuy Dam