Grand Forks Co. Com. #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#7 Kolding Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Grand Forks Co.
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Summary
Com. #1, also known as Hemmingson Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. This earth-type dam, completed in 1936, serves as a critical resource for managing the South Branch Turtle River. With a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maintaining the surrounding ecosystem.
Despite its age, Grand Forks Co. Com. #1 has undergone structural modifications in 1989 and 2000 to ensure its continued functionality. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. However, it is regulated and inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission, demonstrating the commitment to safety and compliance with state regulations. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and maintenance.
Although Grand Forks Co. Com. #1 does not have outlet gates or locks, it is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. This dam is an integral part of the local water infrastructure, serving a primary purpose of "other" and supporting a drainage area of 3.4 square miles. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in North Dakota.
Years Modified |
1989 - Structural, 2000 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH TURTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
225 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Grand Forks Co. Com. #1