Upper Souris #87a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Upper Souris #87a Dam is a vital federal structure located in Ward, North Dakota, along the Souris River.


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Summary

Built by the Army Corps of Engineers and completed in 1994, this earth-type dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, primarily managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. With a height of 15 feet and a length of 5974 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and low hazard potential. Despite being classified as having a very high risk due to its location and purpose, the dam meets all regulatory standards and is equipped with a controlled spillway and slide gate outlet. The surrounding area benefits from the dam's 135-acre surface area, supporting wildlife habitats and recreational activities.

In the event of an emergency, the dam is prepared with an Emergency Action Plan to mitigate risks and ensure public safety. With its strategic location and contribution to water management and wildlife conservation, Upper Souris #87a Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for the community and environment in Ward, North Dakota.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

5974

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SOURIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

135

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.