J. Clark Salyer #357 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

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Summary

Clark Salyer #357 Dam, located in Renville County, North Dakota, plays a crucial role in managing water resources along the Souris River. Built in 1936 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the dam primarily serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for aquatic species in the region. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 3352 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 77,371 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5001 acres.

The dam underwent modifications in 1992 to enhance its hydraulic and structural components, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the Fish and Wildlife Service, with the last assessment conducted in September 2020. The condition of the dam was rated as fair during the inspection, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to preserve its integrity.

With its vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and managing water resources, J. Clark Salyer #357 Dam stands as a testament to the dedication of federal agencies in safeguarding our natural environment. As a key component of the water infrastructure in North Dakota, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1992 - Hydraulic, 1992 - Structural

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

3352

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

SOURIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5001

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

16900

Nid Storage

77371

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.