Mrnak Dam; James 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mrnak Dam, also known as James 2, is a private-owned Earth type dam located in Bowman, North Dakota.


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Summary

Completed in 1993, this dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a storage capacity of 57.5 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.2 acres. Situated on Cold Turkey Creek-TR, the dam has a height of 10 feet and a length of 275 feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Mrnak Dam plays a crucial role in providing habitat for various fish and wildlife species in the area. With a primary purpose of supporting biodiversity, the dam contributes to the conservation efforts in the region. Although its condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam is regularly inspected and regulated by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality.

The presence of Mrnak Dam highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management and the integration of climate resilience measures in infrastructure development. As a key component of the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources and climate, emphasizing the need for effective planning and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

COLD TURKEY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.2

Drainage Area

7.74

Nid Storage

57.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.
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