Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#4, also known as Turtle River Wtsd.Det Dam, is a critical flood risk reduction structure located in Pilot, North Dakota.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1980 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans a length of 1990 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the North Branch Turtle River, with a storage capacity of 2700 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 128.5 feet.
Managed by the NDSWC and regulated by the state of North Dakota, Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#4 has a spillway width of 400 feet and is equipped with a single valve outlet gate. Despite being assessed as in fair condition with a high hazard potential, this dam has a moderate risk rating of 3. It is important to note that the last inspection took place in July 2015, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Overall, Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#4 is a crucial infrastructure in the Grand Forks region, playing a significant role in mitigating flood risks along the Turtle River. With its strategic location and design, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and highlights the importance of ongoing inspection and maintenance to safeguard communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
1990 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH BRANCH TURTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19.9 |
Drainage Area |
20.8 |
Nid Storage |
2700 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
52 |
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.
Upper Turtle R.Fld.Ret.#4