Schwarz Dam; Otto 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Schwarz Dam, also known as Otto 2, is a private earth dam located in Adams, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1995 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and providing a small fish pond for the local community. With a height of 13.3 feet and a storage capacity of 100.7 acre-feet, Schwarz Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Schwarz Dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity. With a spillway width of 100 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is designed to handle potential overflow events effectively. The risk assessment for Schwarz Dam indicates a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to protect the surrounding environment and community.

Schwarz Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the role of dams like Schwarz Dam in protecting ecosystems and providing essential water resources is crucial for sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

253

Dam Height

13.3

River Or Stream

GOOSE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.3

Drainage Area

2.95

Nid Storage

100.7

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.