Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#7 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Upper Turtle R.
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Summary
Fld. Ret. #7, located in Larimore, North Dakota, is a local government-owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS in 1973 for flood risk reduction along the South Branch Turtle River. With a dam height of 29.6 feet and a storage capacity of 1387 acre-feet, this structure plays a crucial role in mitigating flood hazards in the region. The dam covers a surface area of 14.4 acres and has a drainage area of 5.4 square miles, making it a significant water resource management asset in Grand Forks County.
Managed by NDSWC, the dam is regulated and inspected by the state with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway, with a width of 200 feet, is uncontrolled, ensuring effective water discharge during flood events. Although the dam's condition assessment is not rated, its structural integrity and functionality are maintained through regular inspections. Despite not having outlet gates, Upper Turtle R. Fld. Ret. #7 continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, contributing to the overall water resource management efforts in the area.
With its strategic location and design, Upper Turtle R. Fld. Ret. #7 stands as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water management in Grand Forks County. As a part of the local government's commitment to safeguarding the region against flooding, this earth dam remains a key component of the water resource and climate resilience strategy. Its role in protecting the surrounding communities, coupled with state-regulated operations and inspections, highlights the importance of proactive measures in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
4440 |
Dam Height |
29.6 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH TURTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.4 |
Drainage Area |
5.4 |
Nid Storage |
1387 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.#7