Knopik Dam; Francis Reservoir Report
Nearby: Obach Dam; Mike 2 Belfield Rr Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Knopik Dam; Francis, located in Stark County, North Dakota, is a private earth dam designed by USFWS for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Completed in 2012, this dam stands at a height of 9.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 40.6 acre-feet. Situated on Coal Mine Creek, it covers a surface area of 15 acres and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Knopik Dam; Francis is regulated by the North Dakota State Water Commission and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it meets state jurisdiction requirements and is equipped with emergency action plans. The surrounding area benefits from this dam as it provides essential water resources for fish and wildlife conservation efforts.
Knopik Dam; Francis presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to witness the intersection of human engineering with environmental conservation. As an integral part of the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a vital habitat for various species while also contributing to water management and flood control efforts in the region. Its completion in 2012 marked a significant milestone in sustainable resource management, highlighting the importance of balancing human needs with the preservation of natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
2012 |
Dam Height |
9.9 |
River Or Stream |
COAL MINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Knopik Dam; Francis