Kulish Dam; Gerald Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Dunn, North Dakota, the Kulish Dam, also known as Wetland #1, was completed in 1995 by USFWS with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, or a small fish pond.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a height of 12.1 feet and spans 532 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 115.5 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres. It is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway measuring 150 feet in width.

The Kulish Dam plays a crucial role in enhancing water resource management and climate resilience in the region, particularly for fire protection and agricultural purposes. Despite being rated as low hazard potential, the dam's moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its strategic location along Spring Creek, this earth dam serves as a vital water infrastructure component in the area, contributing to the overall water availability and ecosystem health in Dunn County.

As a key feature in the local water resource landscape, the Kulish Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and state regulators in managing water resources effectively. Its design and functionality reflect a balance between human needs and environmental considerations, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices. In the face of changing climate patterns, the Kulish Dam stands as a resilient structure that underscores the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding water resources for the future.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

532

Dam Height

12.1

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

4.32

Nid Storage

115.5

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.