Summary
Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, the dam was completed in 1930 and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond for conservation purposes. Spanning 4250 feet in length and standing at 12 feet tall, the earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 11,200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 990 acres.
The dam, situated on the Buffalo Coulee, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections by the Fish and Wildlife Service. The structure has a low hazard potential but is in poor condition, as assessed during the last inspection in October 2020. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not had any Emergency Action Plan prepared or updated, raising concerns about its readiness in case of emergencies. Given its importance for wildlife conservation, efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness should be prioritized to ensure its continued functionality and safety for both the environment and surrounding communities.
Years Modified |
1969 - Hydraulic, 1969 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
4250 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Buffalo Coulee |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
990 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
384 |
Nid Storage |
11200 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Buffalo Lake Dam