Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#1, located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is a vital flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by NDSWC.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 38.1 feet and stretches 6,625 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4,835 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation.
With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#1 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and climate challenges in the region. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. Despite the absence of outlet gates, the dam's uncontrolled spillway with a width of 300 feet allows for the controlled release of excess water during times of high discharge.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#1 is essential for safeguarding communities against the impacts of flooding. With its strategic location on Skunk Coulee - TR and ownership by the Local Government, this earth dam stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in flood risk reduction and water management. As we continue to address the challenges posed by climate change, the role of such infrastructure in ensuring resilience and sustainability becomes increasingly significant.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
6625 |
Dam Height |
38.1 |
River Or Stream |
SKUNK COULEE - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40.4 |
Drainage Area |
17.2 |
Nid Storage |
4835 |
Structural Height |
38.1 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fordville Dam and Rec Area
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Matejeck Dam Rec Area
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Kolding Dam/Upper Turtle Reservoir
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Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#1