Indian Hills Wda S.850.4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Indian Hills Wda S.850.4, also known as Wildlife S 850.4, is a federal-owned Fish and Wildlife Pond located in North Dakota.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1988 by USBOR, is primarily used for fish and wildlife purposes and has a storage capacity of 68.7 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's condition is currently not rated, but it is inspected, permitted, and regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission.
Situated along the James-TR river stream in Wells County, North Dakota, Indian Hills Wda S.850.4 has a spillway width of 40 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type. The dam has an earth core with stone foundations and a vertical lift outlet gate. While the dam's primary purpose is for fish and wildlife conservation, its normal storage capacity is 31 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 11.2 acres. Despite not having a condition assessment date or an emergency action plan in place, the structure's risk management measures and enforcement by NDSWC ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Overall, Indian Hills Wda S.850.4 is a vital resource for maintaining aquatic habitats and supporting wildlife in the region. Its strategic location, low hazard potential, and moderate risk assessment underscore its important role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a federally-owned dam, it serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities in safeguarding and promoting environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
JAMES-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.2 |
Nid Storage |
68.7 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sheyenne River Above Harvey
|
7cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
James River Nr Grace City
|
46cfs |
Pipestem Creek Nr Pingree
|
45cfs |
Burnt Creek Nr Bismarck
|
9cfs |
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.
Indian Hills Wda S.850.4