Kelly's Slough Pool 2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Kelly's Slough Pool 2 Dam, located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited and managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Completed in 1993, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 2900 feet, serving the primary purpose of water resource management in the Kelly's Slough drainage area. With a normal storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and protecting the surrounding ecosystem.

Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, Kelly's Slough Pool 2 Dam has state regulatory oversight from the North Dakota State Water Commission, ensuring that the dam meets inspection and enforcement standards. The dam's spillway width of 49 feet and controlled outlet gates contribute to its efficient operation, while its fair condition assessment as of August 2013 indicates ongoing maintenance and monitoring efforts. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are in place to address any unforeseen events and ensure public safety.

Kelly's Slough Pool 2 Dam is a vital infrastructure component in the region, providing flood control, water storage, and habitat preservation benefits. With its strategic location and design, the dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between federal agencies and conservation organizations to manage water resources sustainably and mitigate the impacts of climate change on the local environment. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Kelly's Slough Pool 2 Dam underscores the importance of proactive conservation and management practices in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

2900

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

KELLYS SLOUGH DRAINAGE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

86

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.