Polsfut Dam; Theodore Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Polsfut Dam in Theodore, North Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1947 to serve the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 370 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 132 acre-feet. Situated on the Newman Coulee-TR River, this dam is regulated by the NDSWC and has a spillway width of 40 feet.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Polsfut Dam underwent structural modifications in 1962 to enhance its safety measures. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, with a risk score of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure compliance with safety standards. As an essential water resource for irrigation in Ward County, Polsfut Dam plays a crucial role in water management and agricultural sustainability in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Polsfut Dam's history, design, and operational significance in maintaining water supply for agricultural activities in North Dakota. The dam's association with the USDA NRCS, its earth core and stone foundation, and its controlled spillway demonstrate the commitment to sustainable water management practices. With a focus on irrigation and a moderate risk assessment, Polsfut Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and regulating dams to ensure water security and environmental resilience.
Years Modified |
1962 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
NEWMAN COULEE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
132 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Polsfut Dam; Theodore