Spirit Lake Spring Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Spirit Lake Spring Lake is a federal water resource located in North Dakota, specifically in Benson County.


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Summary

Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this site is situated along the Sheyenne River and falls under the jurisdiction of the Omaha District. Although the dam height, volume, and other physical characteristics are not specified, the location is marked as having high hazard potential.

With a history that dates back to the completion year being unknown, Spirit Lake Spring Lake serves a primary purpose that remains undefined. Despite lacking detailed information on its structure, storage capacity, and discharge capability, this water resource is subject to regular inspections with a frequency of every five years. The Emergency Action Plan was last revised in 2012, indicating a commitment to preparedness and safety measures in the event of an emergency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spirit Lake Spring Lake offers a fascinating case study in federal water management and regulation. The high hazard potential and limited data availability underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and sustainability of this site. As one of the many water resources overseen by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Spirit Lake Spring Lake presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and emergency response planning.

River Or Stream

SHEYENNE RIVER -TR

Hazard Potential

High
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.