Des Lacs Dam 4a (Leg B And C) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Des Lacs #4 Dam Des Lacs #5 Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Des Lacs Dam 4a (Leg B and C) is a federal-owned structure located in Ward, North Dakota, along the Des Lacs River.
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Summary
Completed in 1935, this Earth dam stands at a height of 10.2 feet and spans a length of 3951 feet. Its primary purpose is to serve as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing vital habitat for local wildlife. The dam has a NID storage capacity of 1189 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 740 acre-feet, with a surface area of 214 acres and a drainage area of 615 square miles.
This low-hazard dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and vertical lift outlet gates. It underwent structural modifications in 1953 and is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission. While the dam is rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it has a moderate risk level (3) associated with it. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the local ecosystem in the area.
Des Lacs Dam 4a (Leg B and C) is a significant part of the water infrastructure in North Dakota, providing essential support for fish and wildlife populations in the region. With its strategic location along the Des Lacs River, the dam contributes to the conservation efforts and water management practices in the area. Although it has not been recently inspected or assessed for condition, its presence and functions are vital for maintaining a balanced ecosystem and ensuring sustainable water resource management.
Years Modified |
1953 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
3951 |
Dam Height |
10.2 |
River Or Stream |
DES LACS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
214 |
Drainage Area |
615 |
Nid Storage |
1189 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Des Lacs Dam 4a (Leg B And C)