Elsperger Marsh Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Elsperger Marsh, located in Ramsey County, North Dakota, is a Federal-owned Fish and Wildlife Pond built in 1997 along the Mauvais Coulee stream.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of Earth with Stone core types, stands at a height of 7 feet and has a storage capacity of 2752 acre-feet. With a surface area of 294 acres and a drainage area of 1.62 square miles, Elsperger Marsh serves as a habitat for various wildlife species in the region.

Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, Elsperger Marsh has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment. The spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 50 feet, helps regulate water levels, while the outlet gates are of the Vertical Lift design. Despite its moderate risk, the marsh plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the area and provides a safe haven for wildlife, making it a key resource for conservationists and climate enthusiasts alike.

As a part of the Omaha District, Elsperger Marsh contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in the region. While the dam has not been recently inspected, its state-regulated status ensures that it undergoes regular permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures to maintain its functionality and safety. With its strategic location and purpose, Elsperger Marsh stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and conservation practices in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

MAUVAIS COULEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

294

Drainage Area

1.62

Nid Storage

2752

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.