Fargo 4th St South Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Fargo 4th St South Dam, also known as Midtown Dam, is a vital structure owned by the local government in Fargo, North Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1929, this masonry dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a height of 9.7 feet and a length of 200 feet. Situated on the Red River, the dam has a storage capacity of 627 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 194 acres, contributing to the management of water resources in the region.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Fargo 4th St South Dam has undergone structural modifications in 1961 and 1998 to enhance its functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission. While the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, it has not been formally assessed for its condition, highlighting the ongoing need for inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in water management for the community.

Located in Cass County, North Dakota, the Fargo 4th St South Dam plays a crucial role in the water infrastructure of the region, providing a reliable source of water supply and flood control along the Red River. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a key asset in safeguarding water resources and addressing the impacts of climate change on the local environment.

Years Modified

1961 - Structural, 1998 - Structural

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

9.7

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

194

Drainage Area

6800

Nid Storage

627

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.