Schofield Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Schofield Dam, located in Ward County, North Dakota, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) with a completion date of 1937.
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Summary
This earth dam on the Mouse River serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene spot for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been rated for its condition as of yet, but its history and purpose make it a noteworthy structure in the region.
Standing at a height of 8.5 feet and a length of 1700 feet, Schofield Dam boasts a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 100 acre-feet. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 42 feet to manage any excess water flow. Despite its age, the dam remains regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections, its low hazard potential suggests that it continues to serve its purpose effectively.
With its picturesque location on the Mouse River and its historical significance as a WPA project, Schofield Dam is a valuable asset to the community, providing both recreational opportunities and a sense of historical legacy. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the region, they can appreciate the craftsmanship and purpose behind this earth dam, while also recognizing the importance of ongoing regulation and maintenance to ensure its longevity and safety for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
8.5 |
River Or Stream |
MOUSE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Souris River Above Minot
|
5cfs |
Souris River Nr Foxholm
|
0cfs |
Des Lacs River At Foxholm
|
1cfs |
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Roughride Campground
|
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Rice Lake County Park
|
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Old Settlers Park
|
Schofield Dam