Blumhart Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Blumhart Dam, located in McIntosh, North Dakota, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation along the Maple River.


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Summary

Constructed as an earth dam with a stone core and soil foundation, it stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 300 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 180.9 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 13.5 acres for outdoor activities.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Blumhart Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition is currently not rated. Despite not having designated emergency action or inundation maps prepared, the dam is considered to meet guidelines in case of any unforeseen events. Overall, Blumhart Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the region while maintaining a focus on safety and risk management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blumhart Dam offers a unique blend of environmental conservation and outdoor recreation opportunities. Situated within the St. Paul District, the dam provides a peaceful escape for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of McIntosh County. As a vital part of the local landscape, Blumhart Dam exemplifies the balance between human activity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climates and water resource challenges.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

MAPLE RIVER (JAMES)-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.5

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

180.9

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.