Knudson Dam; Keith A. Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Metigoshe Carbury Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Knudson Dam, located in Bottineau, North Dakota, is a private earth dam designed by the NRCS for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
With a height of 8.4 feet and a length of 1850 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 529 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 63 acres. The dam is regulated by the NDSWC and is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level.
Despite not having a designated completion year, Knudson Dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of Oak Creek -TR, providing valuable habitat for fish and wildlife. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates suggest a simple yet effective design aimed at maintaining the ecological balance of the area. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," its state-regulated status ensures that regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place to uphold its integrity and safety.
Overall, Knudson Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management for conservation efforts and climate adaptation. Its role as a Fish and Wildlife Pond showcases the potential for private owners to contribute to environmental stewardship while also highlighting the need for regulatory oversight to ensure the long-term viability of such structures. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Knudson Dam serves as a fascinating example of how human interventions can support biodiversity and ecosystem health in a changing world.
Dam Length |
1850 |
Dam Height |
8.4 |
River Or Stream |
OAK CREEK -TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
63 |
Drainage Area |
1.04 |
Nid Storage |
529 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Willow Creek Nr Willow City
|
10cfs |
Souris River Nr Westhope
|
30cfs |
Souris River Nr Bantry
|
73cfs |
Deep River Nr Upham
|
1cfs |
Wintering River Nr Karlsruhe
|
48cfs |
Souris River Nr Verendrye
|
18cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bottineau City Park
|
||
Strawberry Lake - Turtle Mtn State Forest
|
||
Lake Metigoshe State Park
|
||
Carbury Rec Area
|
Knudson Dam; Keith A.