Spring Water Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Spring Water Lake Dam, located in Emmons, North Dakota, was completed in 1937 by the USFWS for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 590 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Situated on Beaver Creek-Tr, the dam serves as a critical resource in the region, with a drainage area of 35.5 square miles and a surface area of 6 acres.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Spring Water Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The spillway, with a width of 106 feet, is uncontrolled, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it poses a moderate risk, highlighting the need for ongoing risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

In the hands of federal ownership, Spring Water Lake Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape, providing essential services for both wildlife and the surrounding community. Its historical significance and functional design make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intricate balance between human intervention and natural ecosystems in sustaining our environment.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

BEAVER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

35.5

Nid Storage

50

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.