Rock Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Armourdale Dam Snyder Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rock Lake Dam, located in Towner, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1935 by Ducks Unlimited and the U.S. Bureau of Biological Survey, this Earth-type dam stands at 8 feet high, with a length of 753 feet and a storage capacity of 7,600 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and is under the jurisdiction of the DOI Fish and Wildlife Service.
Despite its low hazard potential, Rock Lake Dam's condition assessment was rated as poor during its last inspection in 2015. The dam has undergone modifications in 2002 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. It features other controlled outlet gates and a spillway width of 104 feet. With a drainage area of 105 square miles and a maximum discharge of 3,989 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Rock Lake Dam serves as a vital component in the conservation efforts of the Fish and Wildlife Service, providing essential storage for wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities. As climate change impacts water resources, the dam's maintenance and upkeep are crucial to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community and ecosystem. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the significance of Rock Lake Dam in sustaining the delicate balance of nature in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
2002 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
753 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Pembina River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
796 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
105 |
Nid Storage |
7600 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Rock Lake Dam