Des Lacs Dam 7a Reservoir Report
Nearby: Des Lacs #8 Dam Des Lacs Dam 6 (Nwr)
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Des Lacs Dam 7a, located in Ward County, North Dakota, stands as a vital structure along the Des Lacs River, serving as a crucial component in the state's water resource management.
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Summary
Built in 1937 by the USFWS, this Federal-owned dam primarily functions as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing necessary habitat for local flora and fauna. With a height of 8.5 feet and a length of 2453 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 4486 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 437 acres, making it a significant contributor to the region's water supply.
Despite its low hazard potential, Des Lacs Dam 7a is regulated and inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission, ensuring its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 86 feet and a single vertical lift outlet gate. With a moderate risk assessment rating, efforts are in place to manage potential risks associated with the dam, though its overall condition is currently not rated. As a critical infrastructure in the area, Des Lacs Dam 7a plays a key role in water conservation and management, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.
Des Lacs Dam 7a stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in overseeing water resource infrastructure. As part of the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Des Lacs River watershed. With a focus on conservation and habitat preservation, this earth dam serves as a valuable asset for both wildlife and the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Des Lacs Dam 7a play a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of our environment and the protection of vulnerable ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
2453 |
Dam Height |
8.5 |
River Or Stream |
DES LACS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
437 |
Drainage Area |
661 |
Nid Storage |
4486 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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 Dam 7a