Gerving Dam; Val 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Gerving Dam, also known as Val 2, is a private dam located in Morton, North Dakota, along Spring Valley Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 305 feet, with a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. The primary purposes of the dam are for fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond creation, serving the local community in safeguarding water resources for various needs.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Gerving Dam is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced for safety and compliance. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk rating, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 300 feet, ensuring proper water discharge during heavy rain events. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are in place to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding area from inundation.

Overall, Gerving Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing essential services for fire protection, livestock, and recreational purposes. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the community while maintaining a balance between water storage needs and environmental safety. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the impact and functionality of dams like Gerving Dam is essential for sustainable water management practices and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SPRING VALLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

3.34

Nid Storage

51

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.