Big Birch Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Birch Lake in Todd, Minnesota, is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This concrete dam, completed in 1992, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a storage capacity of 81,434 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and spans 16 feet in length, regulating water flow through Adley Creek. Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the dam is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and integrity.

The lake covers an expansive surface area of 2,112 acres, with a drainage area of 22 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 75,005 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as very high, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures. With its controlled spillway and stable condition, Big Birch Lake provides a scenic and sustainable habitat for wildlife while offering recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy its pristine waters.

Water enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvel of Big Birch Lake's dam, designed by Erickson Eng, and its crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and water resource management in the region. As a state-regulated structure with a focus on conservation and wildlife preservation, this picturesque destination showcases the harmonious coexistence of human intervention and natural beauty, making it a must-visit location for those passionate about water resources and climate sustainability.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

16

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

ADLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2112

Hydraulic Height

3.2

Drainage Area

22

Nid Storage

81434

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.