Coleharbor W. S. Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Coleharbor W.


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Summary

S. Dam, located in McLean County, North Dakota, is a crucial water supply infrastructure managed by the local government. Built in 1965 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 700 feet along Wolf Creek. With a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet, the dam primarily serves the purpose of supplying water to the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 66 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Coleharbor W. S. Dam is subject to state regulation by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC). The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 80 feet, and it is equipped with no outlet gates. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for effective risk management measures. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, regular inspections and enforcement by state agencies ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

Overall, Coleharbor W. S. Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region, with a focus on water supply for the local community. As a key piece of infrastructure designed to store and regulate water flow along Wolf Creek, the dam's construction and maintenance are overseen by state regulatory agencies to ensure public safety and efficient water distribution. With its moderate risk level, ongoing monitoring and risk management measures are essential to maintain the dam's functionality and resilience in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22.6

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

134

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.