Wachter Ranch Dam 11 is a privately owned earth dam located in Oliver County, North Dakota, along the Square Butte Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1984 by USDA NRCS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a height of 30.7 feet and a storage capacity of 71.6 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 6.9 acres within a drainage area of 1.6 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Wachter Ranch Dam 11 is regulated by the NDSWC and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement actions to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet and no outlet gates. While it has not been rated for its condition, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level (3), prompting the need for ongoing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
Overall, Wachter Ranch Dam 11 stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, providing essential services for fire protection, livestock, and recreational activities. As climate change impacts continue to affect water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and monitoring of dams like Wachter Ranch Dam 11 are crucial to safeguarding the surrounding community and ecosystem against potential risks and emergencies.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Height |
30.7 |
River Or Stream |
SQUARE BUTTE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.9 |
Drainage Area |
1.6 |
Nid Storage |
71.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Square Butte Creek Below Center
|
2cfs |
Burnt Creek Nr Bismarck
|
9cfs |
Heart River Nr Mandan
|
101cfs |
Sweetbriar Creek Nr Judson
|
3cfs |
Missouri River At Bismarck
|
16700cfs |
Hay Creek At Main Avenue In Bismarck
|
3cfs |