Wolf Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wolf Lake in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation. This 467-acre lake, completed in 1941, is fed by Wolf Creek and has a drainage area of 32.9 square miles. The gravity dam at Wolf Lake stands at 16 feet tall and has a hydraulic height of 6.3 feet, providing a storage capacity of 3,503 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Wolf Lake has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and has not been modified in recent years. The last inspection in 2014 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, with an inspection frequency of every 8 years. While there are no associated locks or outlets, Wolf Lake remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking for recreational activities in the area.

Overall, Wolf Lake serves as a vital water resource in Minnesota, providing both recreational opportunities and storage capacity for the surrounding area. Enthusiasts interested in water management and climate impact will find Wolf Lake to be an intriguing location, with its unique design and historical significance dating back to the early 1940s. As a state-regulated reservoir with a focus on recreation, Wolf Lake continues to be a key feature in the landscape of St. Louis County, offering a blend of natural beauty and engineered infrastructure for visitors to enjoy and explore.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

68

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

467

Hydraulic Height

6.3

Drainage Area

32.9

Nid Storage

3503

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.