Palczewski Dam; Frank Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bowman Haley Dam Nygaard Leaky
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Palczewski Dam, also known as Frank, is a privately owned structure located in Bowman, North Dakota.
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Summary
Built in 1965 by USDA NRCS, this earthen dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation along the North Fork Grand-Tr river. With a height of 16.7 feet and a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the North Dakota State Water Commission (NDSWC), Palczewski Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with no outlet gates installed. While the condition of the dam is not rated, it meets guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures.
Located within S32; T129N; R100W, Palczewski Dam is a key feature in the local landscape, contributing to the irrigation needs of the surrounding area. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam continues to support agricultural activities and water management efforts in North Dakota.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Height |
16.7 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK GRAND-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
9.3 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Palczewski Dam; Frank