Sunburst Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Sunburst Lake Dam, located in Emmons, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited, Inc.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1989, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, primarily managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. With a height of 13 feet and a length of 565 feet, Sunburst Lake Dam provides storage capacity of 335 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 31.4 acres, benefiting from a drainage area of 9 square miles.
Maintained by the Fish and Wildlife Service, Sunburst Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in 2016, receiving a fair condition assessment. The dam features controlled outlet gates and a spillway width of 200 feet. While the structure has undergone modifications in 2009 for structural improvements, it remains a crucial component for managing water resources in the region. With its location in the HORSEHEAD VALLEY COULEE and its importance for fish and wildlife conservation, Sunburst Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and environmental preservation.
Overall, Sunburst Lake Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between Federal agencies like the Fish and Wildlife Service and organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to create sustainable water infrastructure for ecological purposes. With its regulated status and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, the dam showcases a commitment to maintaining its functionality while supporting the natural ecosystem. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunburst Lake Dam serves as a noteworthy example of how infrastructure can harmoniously coexist with environmental conservation efforts in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
2009 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
565 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
HORSEHEAD VALLEY COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
9 |
Nid Storage |
335 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Cannonball River At Breien
|
96cfs |
Long Lake Cr Below Long Lake Nr Moffit
|
95cfs |
Apple Creek Nr Menoken
|
59cfs |
Hay Creek At Main Avenue In Bismarck
|
3cfs |
Missouri River At Bismarck
|
16700cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sacred Stone Camp
|
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Red Warrior Camp
|
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Oceti Sakowin Camp
|
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Beaver Creek - Lake Oahe
|
Sunburst Lake Dam
79th Street Southwest Emmons County