Lake Susie Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Susie Dam, located in McLean County, North Dakota, is a federally-owned structure managed by the U.S.
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Summary
Department of Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service. Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 1550 feet, with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a storage capacity of 625 acre-feet and a surface area of 79 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding area.
The dam, situated on Deepwater Creek, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. Despite being categorized as having low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in 2017. The risk assessment for Lake Susie Dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards.
Overall, Lake Susie Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for fish and wildlife conservation, while also contributing to water resource management in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this earth dam remains a key feature in the landscape of McLean County, North Dakota, highlighting the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship.
Years Modified |
1996 - Hydraulic, 2000 - Hydraulic, 2002 - Other |
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1550 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
DEEPWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
79 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
44 |
Nid Storage |
625 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Lake Susie Dam