Messmer Dam; Ralph Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burke Dam; Paul Senn Dam; Chuck
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Messmer Dam, also known as Wetland #1, is a privately owned structure located in Mott, North Dakota.
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Summary
Constructed in 1993 by the USFWS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. It stands at a height of 10.5 feet with a length of 334 feet, providing a storage capacity of 107.5 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.1 acres. The dam is regulated by the NDSWC and is designed to handle a moderate risk level, with a low hazard potential.
Situated on the Thirty Mile Creek, Messmer Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Hettinger County. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 100 feet wide, helps regulate water flow and prevent flooding during periods of high discharge. With a vertical lift outlet gate and a drainage area of 10.59 square miles, the dam contributes to the overall water management system in the region. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Overall, Messmer Dam is an essential component of the water infrastructure in North Dakota, providing valuable services for fire protection, livestock, and wildlife. Its strategic location on the Thirty Mile Creek, along with its low hazard potential and moderate risk level, highlights the importance of proper management and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Messmer Dam play a critical role in mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
334 |
Dam Height |
10.5 |
River Or Stream |
THIRTY MILE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.1 |
Drainage Area |
10.59 |
Nid Storage |
107.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Messmer Dam; Ralph