Talkington Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Talkington Impoundment, located in Belfield, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam, completed in 1991, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond alongside other recreational purposes. With a dam height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 9 feet, the impoundment has a storage capacity of 213 acre-feet and a surface area of 40 acres, providing a habitat for various aquatic species.
The impoundment is situated on the North Branch Heart River, with a drainage area of 3 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the structure is inspected by the Forest Service every 10 years, with the last assessment conducted in September 2020. The spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is uncontrolled, ensuring proper water management during high flow events. Overall, Talkington Impoundment presents a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard its integrity and surrounding ecosystem.
As a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation and recreational activities, Talkington Impoundment plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Its strategic location and design highlight the commitment of the Forest Service to balancing environmental preservation with public enjoyment. By ensuring regular inspections and adherence to safety guidelines, the impoundment continues to serve as a valuable asset for the community while promoting sustainable use of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH BRANCH HEART RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
213 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Talkington Impoundment