Wagendorf Dam; Alfred Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wagendorf Dam in Alfred, North Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1996 by the USFWS with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 13.2 feet and has a length of 332 feet, creating a storage capacity of 127.3 acre-feet. Situated on Indian Creek in Hettinger County, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 39.2 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.2 acres.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission and regulated by NDSWC, Wagendorf Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway, with a width of 75 feet, is uncontrolled, providing additional protection in case of excess water flow. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is inspected regularly to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With its strategic location and purpose, Wagendorf Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region, contributing to the overall environmental well-being.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
332 |
Dam Height |
13.2 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.2 |
Drainage Area |
15.37 |
Nid Storage |
127.3 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
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.
Wagendorf Dam; Alfred