Pleasant Valley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Coulee Dam Ox Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Pleasant Valley Dam, located in Rolette, North Dakota, was completed in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and is owned by the local government.
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Summary
The primary purpose of this earth dam, made with stone core types and founded on soil, is for recreation. Standing at a height of 17 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet along the Little Coulee river, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 76 feet. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.
This picturesque dam, nestled in the heart of North Dakota, offers a tranquil recreational space for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. With its historical significance and strategic location, Pleasant Valley Dam serves as a vital part of the local community's water resource management efforts. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and public safety.
As a beloved landmark in the region, Pleasant Valley Dam continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. With its scenic views and well-maintained facilities, the dam provides a perfect setting for water-related activities and serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE COULEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
31 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mauvais Coulee Trib No. 3 Nr Cando
|
2cfs |
Mauvais Coulee Nr Cando
|
17cfs |
Little Coulee Nr Leeds
|
0cfs |
Starkweather Coulee Nr Webster
|
99cfs |
Edmore Coulee Nr Edmore
|
38cfs |
Souris River Nr Bantry
|
73cfs |
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.
Pleasant Valley Dam