J. Clark Salyer #341 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

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Summary

Clark Salyer #341 Dam, located on the Souris River in Bottineau, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure designed and managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Completed in 1936, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 3,312 feet in length. It serves as a crucial Fish and Wildlife Pond, with a storage capacity of 22,304 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 9,069 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 3,108 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential improvements. The last inspection conducted in September 2020 revealed its structural shortcomings, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and upkeep to ensure its continued functionality and safety. The dam's outlet gates are equipped with Tainter (radial) mechanisms, and it has a spillway width of 628 feet to manage potential high discharge levels.

With its critical role in supporting local wildlife habitats and water resources, J. Clark Salyer #341 Dam represents a significant asset in North Dakota's conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water availability and ecosystems, maintaining and enhancing the resilience of structures like this dam is essential for safeguarding the region's biodiversity and ecological balance. Collaborative efforts between federal agencies, state regulators, and local stakeholders will be key in ensuring the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of this vital water management infrastructure.

Years Modified

1992 - Other

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

3312

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

SOURIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3108

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

16300

Nid Storage

22304

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.