Winton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Winton is a hydroelectric dam located on the Kawishiwi River in Winton, Minnesota.


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Summary

Completed in 1923, this concrete, earth, and gravity dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a hydraulic height of 67 feet. With a storage capacity of 17,564 acre-feet, Winton provides not only hydroelectric power but also opportunities for recreation in the surrounding area.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Winton has a controlled spillway with a width of 302 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. The dam's maximum discharge is 24,300 cubic feet per second, serving the drainage area of 1,200 square miles. Despite its age, Winton remains in good condition, with regular inspections and state regulation ensuring its safety and functionality for both energy production and water resource management in the region.

The dam's location in Lake County, Minnesota, underscores its importance in the local water infrastructure, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric generation. Winton's historical significance as a key component in the region's energy supply, coupled with its role in recreation and water management, highlights the vital role it plays in the sustainable utilization of water resources amidst changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

732

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

Kawishiwi River

Surface Area

2983

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

1200

Nid Storage

17564

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 5, Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

67
       
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.