Aslakson Dam; Royce Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Aslakson Dam, also known as Royce Dam, is a private earth dam located in Williams County, North Dakota.


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Summary

Built in 2007, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. It stands at a height of 16.9 feet and has a length of 300 feet, with a storage capacity of 77.2 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 88 feet, and it has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam has not been rated as having any significant deficiencies. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 3.44 square miles, and the dam's normal storage capacity is 31.6 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local livestock and fish populations.

Overall, Aslakson Dam is an essential water resource infrastructure in North Dakota, contributing to the conservation and management of water in the region. With its low hazard potential and regular inspections, the dam continues to serve its purposes effectively while ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and environment. Aslakson Dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure for the benefit of all.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16.9

River Or Stream

NELSON CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.4

Drainage Area

3.44

Nid Storage

77.2

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.