Des Lacs #8 Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Des Lacs Dam 7a Des Lacs Dam 6 (Nwr)
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Des Lacs #8 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 stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 2075 feet along the Des Lacs River. With a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 364 acre-feet and is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is poor, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. The structure has undergone multiple modifications in the past, with the most recent ones in 1980, 1984, and 1986 to reinforce its structural integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 77 feet and an outlet gate in the form of a slide (sluice gate), allowing for controlled release of water to manage downstream flow.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts are drawn to Des Lacs #8 Dam not only for its functional significance as a Fish and Wildlife Pond but also for its historical importance as a key component in the conservation efforts of the area. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital infrastructure.
Years Modified |
1980 - Structural, 1984 - Structural, 1986 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
2075 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
DES LACS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
121 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
311 |
Nid Storage |
941 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
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 #8 Dam