Thompson Dam; Norman 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Thompson Dam, also known as Norman 1, is a privately-owned earth dam located in North Dakota's Wells County.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this recreational dam stands at 22 feet tall and spans a length of 368 feet. With a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, it primarily serves as a recreational water resource for the local community.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), Thompson Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as not assessed for conditions. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been assigned any specific risk management measures, emergency action plans, or inundation maps prepared in case of any unforeseen events.
Situated on the James River, Thompson Dam offers a serene location for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking. With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core construction, the dam contributes to the conservation of water resources while providing a recreational haven for water and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
368 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
JAMES-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.44 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Thompson Dam; Norman 1