Fargo-Moorhead Diversion

Red River· Clay, Minnesota· Rockfill· 54 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Fargo-Moorhead Diversion is classified as high hazard in Minnesota. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 54 ft (taller than 97.2% in MN)
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage512.0K acre-ft
Drainage Area6,800 sq mi
NID IDMN01721

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: No
Regulatory Agency: MNDNR EWR

Ownership

Fargo, Moorhead, Diversion Authority

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Hickson

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Hickson Dam

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Wild Rice Dam (Cass County)

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West Pond

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Pond 4

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Bison Meadows East Stormwater Pond

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Bison Meadows West Stormwater Pond

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Christine

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fargo-Moorhead Diversion?

Fargo-Moorhead Diversion is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Fargo-Moorhead Diversion?

Fargo-Moorhead Diversion is owned by Fargo, Moorhead, Diversion Authority (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Fargo-Moorhead Diversion?

Fargo-Moorhead Diversion serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fargo-Moorhead Diversion?

Fargo-Moorhead Diversion has a dam height of 54 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.