Hofstrand Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Hofstrand Lake Dam, located in Benson, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Constructed in 1978 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a length of 100 feet, serving as a critical resource in managing the flow of the Little Coulee stream. With a storage capacity of 4795 acre-feet and a surface area of 513 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in August 2015. The outlet gates are equipped with slide (sluice gate) technology, and the dam is regulated by the Fish and Wildlife Service, with state oversight from the North Dakota State Water Commission. Ensuring the maintenance and upkeep of this essential structure is vital to safeguarding the local ecosystem and water resources, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and necessary repairs to enhance its overall safety and performance.
With a drainage area of 7.1 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 1790 acre-feet, Hofstrand Lake Dam is a significant component of the water management system in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and upkeep of this dam are essential to ensure its continued functionality and effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential risks associated with extreme weather events and fluctuating water levels.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
Little Coulee |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
513 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
7.1 |
Nid Storage |
4795 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Hofstrand Lake Dam