Maple River Nwr 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Maple River Nwr 2 is a federally-owned Fish and Wildlife Pond located in Dickey County, North Dakota.


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Summary

Managed by the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this Earth dam structure serves multiple purposes, including flood control, recreation, and wildlife conservation. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the dam has a storage capacity of 677 acre-feet and is equipped with a controlled spillway and vertical lift outlet gates.

Although the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated" and there is no recent inspection date available, it is reassuring to know that the state regulatory agency (NDSWC) oversees permitting, inspection, and enforcement for Maple River Nwr 2. The dam's location on the Maple River (James) tributary and its critical role in managing water resources in the area make it an essential infrastructure for both ecological and public safety purposes. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events become more frequent, maintaining the integrity of dams like Maple River Nwr 2 is crucial for ensuring community resilience.

Despite the lack of specific details about the dam's construction date and modifications, its significance as a key component of the water management system in North Dakota cannot be overstated. With a focus on fish and wildlife conservation, this dam serves as a vital habitat for local species and provides essential flood protection for surrounding areas. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support the ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight of structures like Maple River Nwr 2 to safeguard our natural environment and water security for future generations.

Dam Height

8.6

River Or Stream

MAPLE RIVER (JAMES)-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

82

Drainage Area

4.76

Nid Storage

677

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

9
       
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.