Sanish Bay Wpa 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: New Town Lagoon 03 New Town Lagoon 02
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Sanish Bay Wpa 1 is a federal-owned Fish and Wildlife Pond located in Mountrail, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1995 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this Earth dam structure serves multiple purposes, including providing habitat for wildlife and managing water resources in the area. With a storage capacity of 2861 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 62.5 feet, the reservoir covers an area of 22.1 acres and has a drainage area of 10.8 square miles.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Sanish Bay Wpa 1 is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and a vertical lift outlet gate. While the condition of the structure is currently not rated, the presence of emergency action plans and risk management measures indicate a proactive approach towards maintaining the dam's integrity and protecting downstream communities from potential hazards.
Located in a picturesque setting along the SANISH BAY stream, Sanish Bay Wpa 1 stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and environmental conservation. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like this play a vital role in preserving ecosystems and supporting biodiversity. With a commitment to safety, regulation, and risk management, this dam serves as a model for sustainable water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Height |
28.1 |
River Or Stream |
SANISH BAY |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22.1 |
Drainage Area |
10.8 |
Nid Storage |
2861 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Sanish Bay Wpa 1