Schwalbe Dam; Delry Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Schwalbe Dam, located in Dunn County, North Dakota, is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1967.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with a height of 24 feet and a length of 315 feet. It has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres, with a drainage area of 3.15 square miles. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and is inspected, permitted, and enforced by the state regulatory agency.

The Schwalbe Dam on Corral Creek-TR is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 65 feet. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it has not been modified since construction. The last inspection took place in August 2000, and the emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear. The dam does not have outlet gates, locks, or associated structures, making it a straightforward yet important feature for recreational purposes in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Schwalbe Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the management and regulation of water infrastructure in North Dakota. With its earth construction and private ownership, the dam provides a unique recreational opportunity while also serving as a vital component of the local water management system. The presence of the dam on Corral Creek-TR highlights the importance of proper inspection, maintenance, and risk assessment to ensure the safety and functionality of these critical structures in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

CORRAL CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

3.15

Nid Storage

75

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.