Kellys Slough Upper Pool 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kellys Slough Upper Pool 1 Dam, located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is a federal-owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1995, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 11 feet. It has a length of 6600 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 3450 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 1228 acre-feet. The dam, situated in the Kellys Slough Drainage, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of August 2013, the Kellys Slough Upper Pool 1 Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting wildlife in the region. The dam covers a surface area of 403 acres and has a drainage area of 20 square miles, highlighting its significance in maintaining the ecosystem's balance. Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, the dam's operations, inspections, and regulatory aspects are overseen by the same federal agency, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the structure for the benefit of the environment and local communities.
As a key component of the Kellys Slough Drainage, the Upper Pool 1 Dam serves as a vital water management infrastructure with controlled outlet gates and a spillway width of 63 feet. With Congressman Kelly Armstrong representing the area, the dam's presence underscores the importance of preserving water resources and protecting wildlife habitats in North Dakota. Overall, the Kellys Slough Upper Pool 1 Dam stands as a testament to collaborative efforts between federal agencies, designers, and regulators in safeguarding the environment and supporting the region's ecological well-being.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
6600 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
KELLYS SLOUGH DRAINAGE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
403 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
3450 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Kellys Slough Upper Pool 1 Dam