Fischer Dam; Chip Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fischer Dam, also known as Chip, is a private earth dam located in Bowman, North Dakota, along Coyote Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1998 by USFWS, the dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a storage capacity of 126.3 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife habitats in the area, making it a valuable resource for conservation efforts in the region.
With a height of 21.2 feet and a length of 816 feet, Fischer Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and providing a reliable water source for the surrounding ecosystem. The dam is regulated by NDSWC and meets state inspection and enforcement requirements. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its safety and functionality.
Overall, Fischer Dam; Chip is a key infrastructure for supporting wildlife preservation and water resource management in North Dakota. Its strategic location along Coyote Creek, combined with its design and purpose, underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding ecosystems and promoting biodiversity in the region.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
816 |
Dam Height |
21.2 |
River Or Stream |
COYOTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.2 |
Drainage Area |
1.88 |
Nid Storage |
126.3 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Fischer Dam; Chip