Gunderson Dam; Gunner Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gaugler Dam; Richard Orange Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gunderson Dam, also known as Gunner, is a private earth dam located in Adams County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1993 by the USFWS, this structure serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local fauna. With a height of 10.4 feet and a length of 341 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 97 acre-feet and a normal storage of 17.4 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 8.2 acres.
The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by state agencies. The spillway, with a width of 125 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam features a single vertical lift outlet gate. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated as moderate risk (3), although its condition assessment is currently not rated. The dam's purpose and design cater specifically to enhancing the local ecosystem and providing a safe environment for aquatic life.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gunderson Dam offers a fascinating insight into the balance between human intervention and environmental conservation. With a focus on fish and wildlife preservation, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining diverse ecosystems. Its location on Plum Creek-TR in North Dakota makes it a vital component in the region's water infrastructure, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between private owners, state agencies, and federal designers to create a harmonious environment for both wildlife and humans alike.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
341 |
Dam Height |
10.4 |
River Or Stream |
PLUM CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.2 |
Drainage Area |
9.6 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Gunderson Dam; Gunner