Carbury Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Carbury Dam, also known as Boundary Cr Dam #1, is a captivating earth dam located in Bottineau, North Dakota, along Carbury Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this local government-owned structure stands at 49 feet high and spans 1740 feet in length, providing recreational opportunities for visitors in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 1282 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 5218 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 134.9 acres and serves a drainage area of 19.2 square miles.

Managed by the NDSWC, Carbury Dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 332 feet and an outlet gate for controlled water release. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Although the emergency action plan and risk assessment are still pending, the dam has a moderate risk level. Despite its moderate risk, the dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and climate enthusiasts alike, offering a picturesque setting for recreational activities in North Dakota.

Overall, Carbury Dam is a vital water resource in the region, serving both recreational and regulatory purposes. With its imposing structure and scenic surroundings, it continues to attract visitors and researchers interested in water conservation and climate resilience. As a key feature in the local landscape, Carbury Dam stands as a testament to the intricate balance between human intervention and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

1740

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

CARBURY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

134.9

Drainage Area

19.2

Nid Storage

5218

Structural Height

49

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
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.