Knife River Coal Pond 11 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Knife River Coal Pond 11, located in Mercer, North Dakota, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1990 with a primary purpose listed as 'Other'.
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Summary
This dam has a height of 29.1 feet and a storage capacity of 25.84 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1.05 acre-feet. The surface area of the pond is 0.23 acres and it has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating.
The dam is situated on the Knife River, under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. It has not been state regulated or permitted, but is subject to state enforcement. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type is described as 'Uncontrolled', indicating a potential risk factor in emergency situations. The condition of the dam is currently listed as 'Not Rated', highlighting the need for further assessment and potential risk management measures to be implemented.
Overall, Knife River Coal Pond 11 presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the complexities of privately owned dams in North Dakota. With its unique characteristics and risk assessment profile, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and regulation to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Height |
29.1 |
River Or Stream |
KNIFE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.23 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
25.84 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Knife River Coal Pond 11