Snyder Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Snyder Lake Dam, located in Towner, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 388 feet in length. It has a storage capacity of 2,737 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 289 acres, with a drainage area of 24 square miles, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.
Despite its age, Snyder Lake Dam has faced modifications in 2002 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. However, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in 2015, with a low hazard potential. While the dam is equipped with Other Controlled outlet gates and a spillway width of 34 feet, its overall condition raises concerns for the safety and effectiveness of its operations. Water resource and climate enthusiasts should monitor the ongoing maintenance and potential risk management measures for Snyder Lake Dam to ensure the continued protection of its surrounding ecosystem and water supply.
In the event of an emergency, the presence of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for Snyder Lake Dam is unclear, highlighting the need for updated protocols and risk assessments. With its critical role in managing water resources for wildlife preservation, the dam's condition assessment and future maintenance will be crucial in safeguarding the local environment and addressing potential climate-related challenges. As enthusiasts in water resource management and climate sustainability, staying informed about Snyder Lake Dam's maintenance and risk management efforts will be essential for ensuring the longevity of this important infrastructure.
Years Modified |
2002 - Hydraulic, 2002 - Other |
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
388 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Mauvais Coulee |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
289 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
24 |
Nid Storage |
2737 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
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.
Snyder Lake Dam