Green Lake Outlet Control Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Green Lake Outlet Control, located in McIntosh, North Dakota, is a crucial structure owned by the local government and regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam stands at a height of 6.5 feet and has a NID storage capacity of 8622 acre-feet, providing essential water resource management for the surrounding area.

With a surface area of 906 acres and a drainage area of 51 square miles, Green Lake Outlet Control plays a significant role in maintaining water levels and ensuring flood control. The spillway width of 32 feet allows for uncontrolled discharge during high water events, while the dam's stone core and soil foundation provide structural stability. Despite being last inspected in April 2016 and rated as "Not Rated" for condition assessment, the dam remains a critical infrastructure for the community.

This dam, part of the St. Paul District, US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight in water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Green Lake Outlet Control play a vital role in safeguarding communities from potential hazards. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, this dam serves as a model for responsible water infrastructure management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

856

Dam Height

6.5

River Or Stream

PUDWILL LAKE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

906

Drainage Area

51

Nid Storage

8622

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds