Ten Broek Dam; Merril 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ten Broek Dam; Merril 2, also known as Wetland 1, is a private-owned earth dam located in Sioux County, North Dakota.


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Summary

Constructed in 1996 by USDA NRCS and USFWS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a dam height of 14 feet and a length of 350 feet, it has a NID storage capacity of 63.8 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 30.1 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7.6 acres with a drainage area of 0.25 square miles.

Managed by the NDSWC and regulated by the State of North Dakota, Ten Broek Dam; Merril 2 has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. It features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 30 feet and a vertical lift outlet gate. While its condition is currently not rated, the dam is regularly inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state regulatory agency. The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential water resources for fire protection and agricultural activities in the surrounding area.

Located in a picturesque setting along Leaf on the Hill Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water security and supporting local ecosystems. Its construction and maintenance demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water management practices, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

LEAF ON THE HILL CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.6

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

63.8

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.