Gabbro Lake 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gabbro Lake 2, located in Minnesota, is a federal-owned recreational dam nestled along the Isabella River.


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Summary

Built in 1924, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 7 feet and stretches 305 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 10,300 acre-feet. With a surface area of 154 acres and a drainage area of 4.9 square miles, Gabbro Lake 2 offers a tranquil oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.

Despite its age, Gabbro Lake 2 boasts a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. While the last inspection took place in 1974, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of recreation, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1,500 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing a safe environment for outdoor recreation activities.

As a significant landmark in the Detroit District, Gabbro Lake 2 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water resource management in Minnesota. Its historical significance, combined with its recreational value, makes it a must-visit destination for those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate conservation.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

ISABELLA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

154

Drainage Area

4.9

Nid Storage

10300

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.