Richard Dam; Byron Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Richard Dam in Byron, North Dakota, is a private earth dam built in 2010 with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.
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Summary
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission, this dam stands at 28 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 625 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 440 acre-feet. It is located on the North Fork of Bull Creek in Billings County and covers a surface area of 35.5 acres, providing essential habitat for local flora and fauna.
Constructed by Meyer Engineering, Richard Dam is classified as having low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 114 feet and allows for the safe release of excess water during heavy rainfall events. Despite not having outlet gates, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and no emergency action plan has been prepared. The surrounding community is represented by Congressman Kelly Armstrong, a Republican, who oversees the region's water resource management and conservation efforts.
As a vital component of the local ecosystem, Richard Dam plays a crucial role in supporting wildlife and maintaining water quality in the area. With its strategic location along Bull Creek and its significant storage capacity, the dam serves as a key asset for wildlife conservation and habitat restoration initiatives in North Dakota. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the upkeep and monitoring of dams like Richard Dam are essential for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of ecosystems in the region.
Year Completed |
2010 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK OF BULL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
625 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Richard Dam; Byron