Kostelnak Dam; Robert 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kostelnak Dam, also known as Robert 3, is a private dam located in Dunn, North Dakota.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1993 by the USFWS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. It is regulated by the NDSWC and has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.
With a height of 13.8 feet and a storage capacity of 51.9 acre-feet, Kostelnak Dam sits on the Little Knife River and covers a surface area of 5.6 acres. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a vertical lift outlet gate. While the dam's condition is currently rated as "not rated," it is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state of North Dakota.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Kostelnak Dam to be an interesting structure due to its unique design and multiple purposes. Its location on the Little Knife River adds to its ecological significance, providing habitat for wildlife and serving as a source of water for various uses. As a privately owned and state-regulated dam, it showcases the importance of proper management and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of water infrastructure in the region.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Height |
13.8 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE KNIFE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.6 |
Drainage Area |
1.41 |
Nid Storage |
51.9 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Kostelnak Dam; Robert 3