Stegner Dam; William 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Stegner Dam, also known as William 1, is a privately owned structure located in Bowman, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the West Branch Deep Creek-TR. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 831 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 99 acre-feet, covering an area of 11 acres.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Stegner Dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition assessment. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 25 feet, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure. Despite being a privately owned dam, it falls under state regulation for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its compliance and safety standards are met for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Stegner Dam offers a glimpse into the vital role dams play in managing flood risks and protecting communities in rural areas. Its moderate risk assessment and state jurisdiction highlight the importance of proper maintenance and oversight for the long-term sustainability of water infrastructure projects. As part of the flood risk reduction system in North Dakota, Stegner Dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners, government agencies, and designers in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
831 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH DEEP CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Stegner Dam; William 1