Gaugler Dam; Richard Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gunderson Dam; Gunner Orange Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Gaugler Dam, also known as Richard Dam, is a private earth dam located in Adams County, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1993 by the USFWS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a height of 9.1 feet and a length of 602 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7.5 acres.
The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is considered to have a low hazard potential with a moderate risk rating. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 95 feet and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam meets state permitting and inspection requirements, demonstrating a commitment to proper maintenance and management.
Located along Plum Creek, the Gaugler Dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area and plays a crucial role in fire protection and agricultural activities. With its strategic design and purposeful construction, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climates and increasing demands for water security.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
602 |
Dam Height |
9.1 |
River Or Stream |
PLUM CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
9.3 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Gaugler Dam; Richard