Kuntz Dam; James 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jesse Bros Dam Kuntz Dam; James L 2
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Located in Wells, North Dakota, Kuntz Dam; James 2 is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1964 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 25 feet with a length of 700 feet, this dam on Pipestem Creek-TR offers a maximum storage capacity of 74 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres. With a spillway width of 60 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as not assessed for its condition.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Kuntz Dam; James 2 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, there have been no reported modifications or emergency action plans prepared for this structure. With its location in a rural area and limited drainage area of 2 square miles, the dam serves as a recreational site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding landscape and wildlife. While it may not be a significant water resource management project, Kuntz Dam; James 2 plays a role in providing recreational opportunities while ensuring public safety and environmental conservation.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
PIPESTEM CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Kuntz Dam; James 2