Lords Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Willow Lake Knudson Dam; Keith A.
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Bottineau, North Dakota, Lords Lake Dam is a federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Built in 1930 by the Bureau of Biological Survey, this earth dam stands at 7 feet high and stretches 1154 feet in length, creating a fish and wildlife pond with a storage capacity of 9150 acre-feet. Situated along Willow Creek and the Souris River, the dam's primary purpose is to support the conservation of aquatic ecosystems in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Lords Lake Dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with its last inspection dating back to August 2015. With a moderate risk assessment level, there is a need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 641 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 17130 cubic feet per second, serving as a critical component for managing water flow in the region.
As an essential part of the local water resource infrastructure, Lords Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for fish and wildlife conservation, efforts to improve its condition and ensure its long-term sustainability are essential for the protection of the surrounding environment and the communities that rely on its benefits.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1154 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
Willow Creek/Souris River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
778 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
16 |
Nid Storage |
9150 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Willow Creek Nr Willow City
|
10cfs |
Souris River Nr Bantry
|
73cfs |
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
Souris River Nr Westhope
|
30cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
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.
Lords Lake Dam