River Pool Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tewaukon Pool 7 Dam Tewaukon Ws-T-7
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
River Pool Dam, located in Sargent County, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Built in 1967, the dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond on the Wild Rice River, with a primary purpose of supporting aquatic habitats. Standing at a height of 11 feet, the earth dam spans 680 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 616 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was reported as poor during the last inspection in October 2020. The risk assessment categorizes it as very high, indicating potential vulnerabilities that require attention. The dam features a controlled spillway and other controlled outlet gates, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to water management. With a drainage area of 472.7 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 557 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and supporting the local ecosystem.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the River Pool Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and conservation efforts. With state regulation and inspection in place, there is an opportunity to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate potential risks. By leveraging the expertise of the Fish and Wildlife Service and implementing necessary risk management measures, this vital water infrastructure can continue to support biodiversity and ecological health in the region for years to come.
Years Modified |
1967 - Hydraulic, 1967 - Mechanical, 1967 - Structural, 1980 - Hydraulic, 1980 - Mechanical |
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
WILD RICE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
102 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
472.7 |
Nid Storage |
616 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wild Rice River Nr Rutland
|
21cfs |
Sheyenne River At Lisbon
|
222cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Antelope Creek At Dwight
|
25cfs |
Little Minnesota River Near Peever
|
27cfs |
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.
River Pool Dam