Koldok Railroad Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

The Koldok Railroad Dam, also known as Koldok State Wma, is a private-owned structure located in Barnes, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 1911 by NPRR, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15.2 feet and spans 800 feet across the Maple River, serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a storage capacity of 2,160 acre-feet and a normal storage of 130 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 62 acres and drains an area of 27 square miles.

The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 14 feet, and its hazard potential is rated as low with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it is regularly inspected by the North Dakota State Water Commission and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement regulations. The Koldok Railroad Dam offers valuable habitat for fish and wildlife, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure with ecological conservation efforts in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate management will be intrigued by the historical significance and ecological impact of the Koldok Railroad Dam. As a key structure in the area, it provides insights into the balance between human development and environmental stewardship, offering a glimpse into the intricate relationships between water resources, wildlife conservation, and sustainable infrastructure in North Dakota.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

15.2

River Or Stream

MAPLE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

62

Drainage Area

27

Nid Storage

2160

Structural Height

15.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.