Fessenden Dam
Key Takeaway
Fessenden Dam is classified as low hazard in North Dakota. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is fire protection.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 10 ft (taller than 20% in ND) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 430 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 430 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 86 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7,310 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | ND00063 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Wells County WRB
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fessenden Dam?
Fessenden Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Fessenden Dam?
Fessenden Dam is owned by Wells County WRB (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fessenden Dam built?
Fessenden Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Fessenden Dam?
Fessenden Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fessenden Dam?
Fessenden Dam has a dam height of 10 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.
When was Fessenden Dam last inspected?
Fessenden Dam was last inspected on April 2, 1970. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.