Horst Dam; Kelly Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Horst Dam, also known as Wetland #1, is a privately owned structure located in Mountrail, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 2001 by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes along Shell Creek. With a height of 8 feet and a length of 420 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 57.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.2 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Managed by private owners, Horst Dam plays a crucial role in the agricultural landscape of the region, providing essential water resources for irrigation. With a spillway width of 60 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is designed to handle moderate risks and has not been rated for its condition assessment. The presence of a vertical lift outlet gate allows for controlled water release when needed, further enhancing the dam's functionality and efficiency in water management. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it continues to fulfill its intended purpose effectively.
Horst Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam exemplifies the collaboration between private owners, regulatory agencies, and design professionals in ensuring the sustainable use of water for irrigation in North Dakota. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like Horst Dam in safeguarding water availability for agricultural activities and maintaining ecological balance in the region.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
SHELL CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.2 |
Drainage Area |
4.77 |
Nid Storage |
57.4 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Horst Dam; Kelly