Upper Souris #96 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Upper Souris #96 Dam is a federally owned structure located in Ward County, North Dakota, along the Souris River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1935 by the Bureau of Biological Survey (USFWS), this earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 2700 feet, providing essential water storage for fish and wildlife ponds in the area. Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 5931 acre-feet and serves as a critical resource for the surrounding ecosystem.

Despite its historical significance, Upper Souris #96 Dam is currently in poor condition and has a low hazard potential, as indicated by the last inspection conducted in August 2016. The dam experiences regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the North Dakota State Water Commission, ensuring its structural integrity and safety for the community. With a drainage area of 6340 acres and a normal storage capacity of 2140 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.

In recent years, Upper Souris #96 Dam has undergone multiple modifications to enhance its hydraulic and structural capabilities. With vertical lift outlet gates and a maximum discharge capacity of 13916 cubic feet per second, the dam continues to be a key component in flood control and water resource management along the Souris River. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure like Upper Souris #96 Dam is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of our ecosystems in the face of changing climate patterns.

Years Modified

1951 - Hydraulic, 1951 - Structural, 1992 - Hydraulic, 1992 - Structural, 2006 - Other

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

SOURIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

822

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

6340

Nid Storage

5931

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.