Ox Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Ox Creek Dam, located in Rolette, North Dakota, was completed in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and is currently regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC).


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Summary

The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, with a structural height of 14 feet and a length of 312 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Ox Creek Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting against potential risks in the region. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, and there is limited information available on emergency preparedness measures such as the existence of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). However, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by state authorities, ensuring its continued functionality and safety for the community.

The dam is situated on Willow Creek, and its uncontrolled spillway with a width of 153 feet helps manage water discharge during periods of high flow. While there are no associated locks or outlet gates, the dam maintains a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. As a significant local government-owned structure, Ox Creek Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

312

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

200

Nid Storage

54

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.