Studeness Dam; Leo Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Alice Dam Hofstrand Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Studeness Dam, located in Benson County, North Dakota, was completed in 1960 by the USFWS with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Mauvais Coulee-TR.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 8.1 feet and has a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet. The dam's spillway width measures 100 feet, and it is classified as having a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.
The dam, owned and regulated by a private entity, is inspected and enforced by the NDSWC in compliance with state regulations. In 1990, the dam underwent structural modifications to ensure its continued effectiveness in managing flood risk. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam has an emergency action plan in place with one slide gate for outlet control. With a well-maintained spillway and moderate risk management measures, Studeness Dam remains a crucial asset for flood protection in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Studeness Dam for its role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. The dam's strategic location and design make it a key feature in the region's water resource management efforts. With ongoing inspections and a comprehensive emergency action plan, Studeness Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive risk management in safeguarding against potential disasters.
Years Modified |
1990 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Height |
8.1 |
River Or Stream |
MAUVAIS COULEE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
90 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
650 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Studeness Dam; Leo