Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kolding Dam Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#4
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#5 is a crucial structure managed by the local government in North Dakota to address flood risk reduction along Whisky Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 70 feet and spans a length of 2130 feet. With a storage capacity of 1810 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 62 acre-feet, it plays a vital role in managing water levels in the region.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 400 feet, is uncontrolled, and its hazard potential is classified as high, although its condition assessment is marked as fair as of April 2021. The structure is regularly inspected and regulated by the NDSWC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its integrity. The primary purpose of Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#5 is flood risk reduction, and it continues to play a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.
With its strategic location in Grand Forks, North Dakota, this dam is a key component of the region's water resource management infrastructure. Its moderate risk assessment rating and ongoing risk management measures highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring this structure to safeguard the community from potential flooding events. As a significant asset in the area's water management strategy, Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#5 exemplifies the proactive approach taken to address climate-related challenges and ensure the resilience of the local environment.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
2130 |
Dam Height |
70 |
River Or Stream |
WHISKY CREEK (N) |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.8 |
Drainage Area |
8.5 |
Nid Storage |
1810 |
Structural Height |
70 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
70 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#5