Stephens Dam; Wilbur Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Stephens Dam in Wilbur, North Dakota, stands as a testament to effective water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 1984, this private earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond maintenance. With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 127 acre-feet, Stephens Dam ensures a reliable water supply for the surrounding area.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Stephens Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1990 to enhance its safety measures. The dam's condition remains unrated, but its location on the Missouri River tributary guarantees vital water resources for the region.
While Stephens Dam may not have outlet gates or associated structures, its importance in water resource management cannot be understated. With a surface area of 6.7 acres and a drainage area of 1.22 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in sustaining the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water availability, the efficient operation and regulation of dams like Stephens Dam are essential for ensuring water security in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Years Modified |
1990 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
MISSOURI-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.7 |
Drainage Area |
1.22 |
Nid Storage |
127 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Knife River At Hazen
|
48cfs |
Square Butte Creek Below Center
|
2cfs |
Spring Creek At Zap
|
5cfs |
Sweetbriar Creek Nr Judson
|
3cfs |
Knife River Nr Golden Valley
|
27cfs |
Heart River Nr Mandan
|
101cfs |
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.
Stephens Dam; Wilbur
Northern Boundary Of Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site To Southern Boundary Of Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site