Simpson Dam; Alvin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Simpson Dam in Alvin, North Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the NDSWC.


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Summary

Completed in 1983, this earth dam stands at a height of 16.5 feet and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and a surface area of 10.2 acres, Simpson Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Located on Charbonneau Creek-TR, Simpson Dam is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 131 feet and is equipped with a single valve outlet gate for water release. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality for emergency situations.

This vital water resource infrastructure not only provides essential services to the local community but also contributes to the overall water management efforts in McKenzie County, North Dakota. With its strategic location and multiple purposes, Simpson Dam serves as a valuable asset for fire protection, livestock, and recreational activities while actively managing water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Height

16.5

River Or Stream

CHARBONNEAU CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.2

Drainage Area

0.88

Nid Storage

124

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.