Gascoyne Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 8, 2026
Gascoyne Lake Dam, located in Gascoyne, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure designed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1934.
Summary
The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission. With a height of 8 feet and a length of 1265 feet, it has a storage capacity of 1691 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1300 acre-feet.
The dam, constructed with an earth core and stone foundation, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 1000 feet. Despite being rated with a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been assessed. The risk assessment for Gascoyne Lake Dam is moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3, indicating the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures in the future. Overall, Gascoyne Lake Dam stands as a vital water resource and recreational site in Bowman County, offering a serene setting for visitors to enjoy.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
1265 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
1691 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Gascoyne Lake Dam