Summary
The dam is primarily an earth structure with a stone core and soil foundation. It has a maximum storage capacity of 28,800 acre-feet and a normal storage of 15,200 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource for the region. The dam's spillway, with a width of 375 feet, is uncontrolled, capable of discharging up to 13,850 cubic feet per second.
Despite its importance, Elm Lake Dam has been rated as having a high hazard potential and is currently in poor condition, according to a 2019 assessment. The dam is inspected every three years, with the last assessment conducted in November 2019. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, there is a need for significant risk management measures to ensure the safety and operational efficiency of the structure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining and upgrading dams like Elm Lake Dam will be crucial for ensuring water security in the region.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
1150 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
ELM RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
292 |
Nid Storage |
28800 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
Elm R At Westport Sd
|
12cfs |
Foot Creek Near Aberdeen
|
0cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
James River At Lamoure
|
217cfs |
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.
Elm Lake Dam