Zabolotny Dam; Anton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Zabolotny Dam, also known as Wetland #1, is a privately owned structure located in Billings County, North Dakota.


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Summary

Designed by the USFWS, this earth dam stands at a height of 17.2 feet and has a length of 390 feet. Completed in 2007, its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 180.9 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial resource for the local community.

Situated along the Little Knife River, Zabolotny Dam plays a key role in regulating water flow and providing essential irrigation for the surrounding area. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this dam has not been rated for its condition. While it lacks certain features like outlet gates and a spillway control system, the dam remains a vital asset for water resource management in the region. Despite its limited inspection history and emergency preparedness measures, Zabolotny Dam continues to provide valuable support for the environment and local wildlife.

As a part of the St. Paul District and under the jurisdiction of the NDSWC, Zabolotny Dam maintains a significant presence in the water infrastructure of North Dakota. Its strategic location and purposeful design make it a noteworthy structure for those interested in water resources and climate sustainability. With ongoing regulatory oversight and the potential for future enhancements, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

17.2

River Or Stream

LITTLE KNIFE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.2

Drainage Area

4.03

Nid Storage

180.9

Structural Height

19.2

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.