Deep River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Deep River Dam is a privately owned structure located in North Dakota along the Deep River, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1934 by the Reconstruction Finance Corp., this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 382 feet, providing a storage capacity of 193.9 acre-feet for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a high risk due to its condition assessment being "Not Rated".

Although Deep River Dam does not have a spillway, outlet gates, or locks, it still serves as a popular destination for recreational activities. This historic dam, situated in Bottineau, North Dakota, offers a surface area of 72.7 acres for visitors to explore. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not currently rated, its state-regulated status and regular inspections ensure the safety and enjoyment of all who visit this picturesque location. Water and climate enthusiasts will find Deep River Dam to be a captivating site that blends nature, history, and outdoor adventure.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

382

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

DEEP RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

72.7

Nid Storage

193.9

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.