Alkali Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Alkali Creek Dam, located in Bowman, North Dakota, is a state-regulated structure built in 1993 for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Designed by Ducks Unlimited, USACE, and USFWS, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a storage capacity of 710 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Alkali Creek, has a surface area of 57.8 acres and a drainage area of 57 square miles, providing essential habitat for aquatic wildlife in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Alkali Creek Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway 800 feet wide and a single valve outlet gate. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the structure is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the North Dakota State Water Commission. The dam's location in a scenic area and its contribution to conservation efforts make it a significant resource for water and climate enthusiasts interested in wildlife habitat preservation and sustainable water management practices.
Despite its relatively small size and low hazard potential, Alkali Creek Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With its design focused on fish and wildlife conservation, this earth dam serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship, making it a fascinating case study for those passionate about the protection and sustainability of our natural waterways in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
ALKALI CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
57.8 |
Drainage Area |
57 |
Nid Storage |
710 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bowman-Haley Lake
|
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Picnic Spring
|
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Picnic Spring Campground
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Alkali Creek Dam