West Rock Slough (Fws) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

West Rock Slough (Fws) is a federal-owned fish and wildlife pond located in Burke, North Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1988, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet. With a surface area of 25.3 acres and a drainage area of 4.31 square miles, West Rock Slough serves as a vital resource for the conservation of aquatic wildlife in the region.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, West Rock Slough is regulated and permitted for use in fish and wildlife preservation efforts. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 150 feet, and it has a low hazard potential rating. The condition assessment for the dam is currently marked as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its structural integrity and functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, West Rock Slough is an important site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and protect. Its primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond underscores the importance of maintaining and preserving this valuable resource for the benefit of the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and upkeep of structures like West Rock Slough will be crucial in ensuring the sustainability and resilience of aquatic habitats in North Dakota.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

UPPER LOSTWOOD LAKE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25.3

Drainage Area

4.31

Nid Storage

159

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.