Christopherson Dam; Dennis 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Howard Dam Rafteseth Dam; John
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Christopherson Dam, also known as Dennis 1 or Wetland #1, is a private-owned structure located in Grant, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 2004 by the USFWS, this earth-type dam has a height of 11 feet and a length of 700 feet, serving primarily for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. It has a storage capacity of 69.1 acre-feet and a surface area of 9.4 acres, with a drainage area of 5.31 square miles.
The dam, situated on Morris Creek, is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC) and undergoes regular inspections, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. Equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and a vertical lift outlet gate, Christopherson Dam poses minimal risk to its surroundings. Despite its condition assessment being listed as "not rated," the structure stands as a vital resource for water management and conservation in the area.
With its strategic location and functional design, Christopherson Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and managing potential flood risks in the region. As an integral part of the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both human needs and environmental conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
2004 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
MORRIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.4 |
Drainage Area |
5.31 |
Nid Storage |
69.1 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Christopherson Dam; Dennis 1