Mott City Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Located in Mott, North Dakota, the Mott City Dam stands as a vital structure along the Cannonball River.


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Summary

Built in 1910 by NPRR, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water enthusiasts and nature lovers. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 163 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 347.8 acre-feet, creating a surface area of 86.96 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the NDSWC, the Mott City Dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to have a moderate risk level. Two slide gates control the water flow, ensuring safety and stability for the surrounding area. Despite being fairly old, the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1913, indicating a commitment to maintaining its functionality and safety.

For those interested in water resources and climate, the Mott City Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure that continues to serve its community effectively. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, this concrete dam on the Cannonball River exemplifies the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes, making it a valuable asset for both locals and visitors alike.

Years Modified

1913 - Structural

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

163

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CANNONBALL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

86.96

Drainage Area

720

Nid Storage

347.8

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.