Dam 87-Main (Upper Souris Nwr) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dam 87-Main, located in Burlington, North Dakota, is a vital part of the Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge.


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Summary

Built in 1936 by the USFWS, this federal-owned earth dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for various species in the area. With a height of 16.2 feet and a length of 1800 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1214 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 288 acres.

The dam, situated on the Souris River, is regulated by the state of North Dakota and has a spillway width of 700 feet. It is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. The structure features Tainter radial gates and is inspected regularly to ensure its integrity and safety. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

Dam 87-Main is a significant asset in the conservation efforts of the area, providing essential support for wildlife and contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. Its presence not only helps in managing water levels and drainage but also serves as a crucial habitat for various species. With its strategic location and design, the dam continues to be a key element in maintaining the ecological balance of the Upper Souris NWR and the surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

16.2

River Or Stream

SOURIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

288

Drainage Area

9200

Nid Storage

1214

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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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.