Spirit Lake Kurtz Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Spirit Lake Kurtz Dam, located on the Sheyenne River in North Dakota, is a federally owned structure managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.


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Summary

This high hazard potential dam serves various purposes but specific details on its design, height, length, and storage capacity are not available. Despite the lack of detailed information, the dam is inspected every five years and deemed to have a high hazard potential.

The dam does not fall under state jurisdiction and is not regulated by state agencies, with all aspects of ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, operations, and other responsibilities handled by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The emergency action plan for Spirit Lake Kurtz Dam was last revised in 2012, indicating a commitment to preparedness for any potential incidents. With a high hazard potential, the dam serves as a critical structure on the Sheyenne River, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the surrounding communities and water resources.

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Hazard Potential

High
       
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.