Rafteseth Dam; John Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Rafteseth Dam, also known as Wetland #1, is a private earth dam located in Grant, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 2002 by the USFWS, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. Standing at a height of 9.9 feet and stretching 920 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 60.3 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8.9 acres. Situated on Brushy Creek, the dam is regulated by the NDSWC and is designed to handle low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite its relatively small size, Rafteseth Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 130 feet wide and has no outlet gates. While it has not been rated for its condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected and meets state regulatory guidelines for operation and maintenance. With its strategic location and functional design, Rafteseth Dam serves as a vital asset for fire protection, livestock watering, and preserving aquatic habitats in the region.
As a key structure in the St. Paul District, Rafteseth Dam is an integral part of the local ecosystem and contributes to the overall water management efforts in North Dakota. With its efficient design and low hazard potential, the dam provides a reliable source of water for various purposes while also mitigating the risk of flooding in the surrounding area. With continued monitoring and maintenance, Rafteseth Dam will continue to support the community's water resource needs for years to come.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
920 |
Dam Height |
9.9 |
River Or Stream |
BRUSHY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.9 |
Drainage Area |
9.81 |
Nid Storage |
60.3 |
Structural Height |
9.9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Rafteseth Dam; John