Fairfield Dam; James Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thoreson-Monson Dam Stevens Dam; Joe
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Fairfield Dam, located in North Dakota along the Sheyenne River-Tr, was completed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife by providing a pond for their habitat.
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Summary
This private Earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 223 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.7 acres. Despite having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have moderate risk due to its condition assessment being unavailable.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Fairfield Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and maintaining a healthy environment for various species. With a spillway width of 30 feet and no outlet gates, the dam ensures controlled water flow and contributes to the overall water management system in the area. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam's risk management measures are being continuously evaluated to ensure its safety and longevity.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Fairfield Dam in providing a sustainable habitat for fish and wildlife along the Sheyenne River. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's moderate risk status highlights the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity and safeguard the surrounding ecosystem. As a key structure designed by the USDA NRCS, Fairfield Dam stands as a testament to the commitment towards environmental conservation and resource management in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
223 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
Sheyenne River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sheyenne River Below Baldhill Dam
|
169cfs |
Maple River Nr Enderlin
|
25cfs |
Sheyenne River At Lisbon
|
222cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
Baldhill Creek Nr Dazey
|
7cfs |
James River At Jamestown
|
205cfs |
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.
Fairfield Dam; James