Lower Red Lake Nr Red Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Red Lake River Big Swamp
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lower Red Lake is located in northern Minnesota and is the largest natural freshwater lake in the state.
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Summary
It has a rich history with the Ojibwe tribe, who have fished and hunted in the area for centuries. The lake is fed by the Red Lake River and other smaller streams, and has an extensive wetland complex that helps filter the water. The area also receives significant snowfall in the winter, which contributes to the lake's water levels. Agricultural activities in the area include corn, soybeans, and wheat production. Recreational uses of the lake include fishing, boating, and camping. The lake has been the focus of conservation efforts to improve water quality and protect sensitive habitats, such as the wild rice beds that grow in the shallows.
Reservoir Details
| Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change | 0.01% |
| Percent of Normal | 100% |
| Minimum |
72.38 ft
2012-10-05 |
| Maximum |
77.03 ft
2011-06-22 |
| Average | 74 ft |
| Dam_Height | 15 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 13 |
| Drainage_Area | 1921 |
| Year_Completed | 1931 |
| Nid_Storage | 3428000 |
| Structural_Height | 17 |
| River_Or_Stream | RED LAKE RIVER |
| Foundations | Soil |
| Surface_Area | 288640 |
| Hazard_Potential | Low |
| Outlet_Gates | Slide (sluice gate) - 4 |
| Dam_Length | 36500 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
| Nid_Height | 17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Gage Height, Ft Levels
Precipitation, Cumulative, Inches Levels
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lower Red Dam
Lower Red Lake Nr Red Lake
MN 1; MN 89 Clearwater County