Maple River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Maple River Dam, located in Dickey County, North Dakota, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife management in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 557 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2405 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Maple River, covering a drainage area of 412 square miles and providing a surface area of 215 acres.
Despite its importance, Maple River Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in July 2020. The dam has undergone structural modifications in 1947 and 1967 to ensure its continued functionality. The Federal agency in charge of the dam's operations is the Department of Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, indicating its significance in preserving the local ecosystem and supporting biodiversity.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Maple River Dam are essential for ensuring the sustainability of aquatic habitats and wildlife populations. By addressing the poor condition of the dam and implementing necessary risk management measures, stakeholders can safeguard this critical infrastructure for future generations and enhance its role in supporting fish and wildlife conservation efforts in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
1947 - Structural, 1967 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
557 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Maple River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
215 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
412 |
Nid Storage |
2405 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
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.
Maple River Dam