Pretty Rock Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kilzer Dam; Edmund Hoherz Dam; Wade
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Pretty Rock Dam, located in Grant County, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure designed and managed by the U.S.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Dept. of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Built in 1936, this Earth-type dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on Sheep Creek, with a storage capacity of 1268 acre-feet and a surface area of 147 acres. The dam stands at a height of 16 feet, with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, and a length of 1188 feet.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Pretty Rock Dam is regularly inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission and meets state regulatory standards. The dam's condition was last assessed as fair in September 2017, with moderate risk management measures in place. With an uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 2184 cfs, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area and supporting the local fish and wildlife habitat.
Represented by Congressman Kelly Armstrong, this dam contributes to the conservation efforts of the DOI FWS and underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining ecological balance and protecting natural resources in North Dakota. As a key structure in the St. Paul District, Pretty Rock Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of vital water infrastructure for both wildlife and communities in the region.
Years Modified |
1997 - Hydraulic, 1997 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
1188 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
SHEEP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
147 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
1268 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sheep Creek Dam
|
||
New Leipzig City Park
|
||
Lions and Elgin Parkboard
|
Pretty Rock Dam