Fischer Dam; Bill 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fischer Dam; Bill 1, located in Bowman, North Dakota, was completed in 1993 by the USFWS and serves as a vital structure for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

The earth-core dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 67.4 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 14.5 acre-feet. It is situated on Buffalo Creek and covers a surface area of 8.5 acres, with a drainage area of 10.12 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Fischer Dam; Bill 1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the NDSWC, ensuring its safety and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 100 feet, is of the uncontrolled type, and the dam is equipped with a vertical lift outlet gate. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, its risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fischer Dam; Bill 1 is a noteworthy structure that plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and community. Its construction and functionality align with the state's regulations and guidelines, providing essential services for fire protection, livestock, and recreational fishing activities. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in North Dakota.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.5

Drainage Area

10.12

Nid Storage

67.4

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.
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