Spirit Lake Bia 4 North Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Spirit Lake Bia 4 North is a federal water resource located in Benson, North Dakota, along the Sheyenne River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this site holds a high hazard potential with a condition assessment that is currently not available. The emergency action plan was last revised in September 2012, indicating a need for updated information and preparedness measures. Despite the lack of specific details on the dam structure and purpose, the site's critical location and potential risk highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
The Spirit Lake Bia 4 North water resource falls under federal jurisdiction and is not regulated by the state of North Dakota. With a high hazard potential and a five-year inspection frequency, this site poses a significant risk to surrounding communities in the event of a dam failure. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is responsible for funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operations at this location, underscoring the federal government's role in ensuring the safety and integrity of the dam. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, proactive measures are essential to mitigate risks and protect the environment and public safety.
While specific details on the dam's features and history are not provided, the Spirit Lake Bia 4 North water resource serves as a critical site along the Sheyenne River in North Dakota. With no available information on storage capacity, structural height, or purpose, there is a need for updated data and risk assessments to inform emergency preparedness and management strategies. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to advocate for transparency, accountability, and proactive measures to safeguard our natural resources and communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
River Or Stream |
SHEYENNE RIVER -TR |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sheyenne River Nr Warwick
|
75cfs |
Edmore Coulee Trib Nr Webster
|
50cfs |
Starkweather Coulee Nr Webster
|
99cfs |
Edmore Coulee Nr Edmore
|
38cfs |
Little Coulee Nr Leeds
|
0cfs |
James River Nr Grace City
|
46cfs |
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.
Spirit Lake Bia 4 North
Devils Lake Nr Devils Lake
Benson County