Kromarek Dam; Ludvik 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kromarek Dam; Ludvik 1, located in Bowman, North Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by the USFWS to serve as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9.1 feet and spans 455 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 93.1 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 17.2 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 9.7 acres and draining an area of 15.38 square miles. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes.

Despite its low hazard potential, Kromarek Dam; Ludvik 1 plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of Lightning Creek and supporting the local fish and wildlife population. With an uncontrolled spillway and vertical lift outlet gates, the dam efficiently controls water flow and maintains a moderate risk level. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its risk management measures are in place to ensure public safety and environmental protection. As a significant structure in the Omaha District, Kromarek Dam; Ludvik 1 contributes to the sustainable management of water resources in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location and design of Kromarek Dam; Ludvik 1, which not only serves as a habitat for fish and wildlife but also contributes to flood control and water storage. The dam's association with the USFWS and state regulatory agencies highlights its importance in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. With a focus on risk assessment and management, the dam ensures the safety of surrounding communities while effectively utilizing its storage capacity for various environmental purposes. Kromarek Dam; Ludvik 1 stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in North Dakota's water resource management efforts.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

455

Dam Height

9.1

River Or Stream

LIGHTNING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.7

Drainage Area

15.38

Nid Storage

93.1

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.