Wood Lake Marsh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wood Lake Marsh Dam, located in Benson County, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Built in 1938 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 14 feet. The dam has a length of 120 feet and a storage capacity of 342 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 6.5 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Wood Lake Marsh Dam underwent structural modifications in 2012 to ensure its continued functionality. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam poses a moderate risk, prompting regular inspections every 5 years. The last inspection in August 2015 confirmed its stable condition, serving as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and wildlife conservation in the region.

As a vital component of the local ecosystem, Wood Lake Marsh Dam serves as a critical water source for the surrounding area, providing essential habitat for wildlife and supporting ecological diversity. With its historical significance dating back over eight decades, this structure represents a harmonious balance between water resource management and environmental conservation efforts, showcasing the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of climate change challenges.

Years Modified

2012 - Structural

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Unnamed

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

6.5

Nid Storage

342

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.