Stegner Dam; William 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Stegner Dam, also known as William 3, is a privately owned structure located in Bowman, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1973 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation along the West Branch of Deep Creek. With a height of 22 feet and a length of 1427 feet, Stegner Dam has a storage capacity of 252 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for agricultural purposes in the region.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. It is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has no outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 285 feet, indicating a need for careful monitoring and maintenance to prevent any potential risks or hazards.
Stegner Dam plays a crucial role in water management and irrigation in Bowman, North Dakota, showcasing the importance of proper infrastructure in supporting agricultural activities in the region. With its location on the West Branch of Deep Creek, this dam continues to provide essential water resources for the local community while being subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safe operation and minimal risk to surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
1427 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH DEEP CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Drainage Area |
3.8 |
Nid Storage |
252 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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 3