Lost Lake Wpa 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lost Lake Wpa 2 Erickson Dam; Ladd 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lost Lake WPA 1, located in McLean, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned fish and wildlife pond designed by USFWS.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1990, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet on its 64-acre surface area. The dam is primarily used for wildlife conservation purposes and is situated along the Painted Woods Creek-TR, under the jurisdiction of the state of North Dakota.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Lost Lake WPA 1 has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and a vertical lift outlet gate. While it has not been inspected recently and lacks an emergency action plan, the structure is maintained by the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With its scenic location and importance for local wildlife, Lost Lake WPA 1 serves as a vital water resource in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lost Lake WPA 1 offers a glimpse into the intersection of environmental conservation and infrastructure development. As a key component of the local ecosystem, this dam plays a crucial role in providing habitat for various wildlife species while managing water flow along Painted Woods Creek-TR. With its moderate risk assessment and lack of recent inspections, there is a need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term viability of this important water resource in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
PAINTED WOODS CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Square Butte Creek Below Center
|
2cfs |
Burnt Creek Nr Bismarck
|
9cfs |
Heart River Nr Mandan
|
101cfs |
Missouri River At Bismarck
|
16700cfs |
Hay Creek At Main Avenue In Bismarck
|
3cfs |
Sweetbriar Creek Nr Judson
|
3cfs |
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.
Lost Lake Wpa 1
McLean County