Rock Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rock Dam 2, located in McHenry, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned earth dam managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Built in 1936, this dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing critical habitat and water resources for the surrounding area. With a height of 8 feet and a length of 10682 feet, Rock Dam 2 has a normal storage capacity of 1257 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 462.13 acres.
This dam, part of a tributary of the Souris River, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and inspected regularly by the Fish and Wildlife Service. Its hazard potential is classified as low, with a fair condition assessment as of September 2020. The outlet gates are controlled, ensuring efficient water management and flow control. With a drainage area of 3.83 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1114 cubic feet per second, Rock Dam 2 plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and wildlife populations.
As a key component of the water infrastructure in the region, Rock Dam 2 exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation. With its primary purpose of providing a habitat for fish and wildlife, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water practices and the preservation of natural ecosystems. With ongoing maintenance and inspection efforts, Rock Dam 2 continues to fulfill its role in supporting biodiversity and ecological balance in the area.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
10682 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Tributary of Souris River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
462.13 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
3.83 |
Nid Storage |
1532 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Willow Creek Nr Willow City
|
10cfs |
Souris River Nr Bantry
|
73cfs |
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Souris River Nr Westhope
|
30cfs |
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.
Rock Dam 2