Smith Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smith Lake in St.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam completed in 1939 primarily for recreational purposes. The dam, owned and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, stands at 8.5 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 2.8 feet. With a storage capacity of 2517 acre-feet and a surface area of 220 acres, Smith Lake is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy the water and surrounding natural landscape.

Situated on the Little Cloquet River, Smith Lake boasts a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of 2009. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate effectively with a moderate risk rating. The surrounding area offers various recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking, making it a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike. With state inspection, permitting, and enforcement in place, Smith Lake remains a safe and well-maintained water resource for all to enjoy.

Managed by the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Smith Lake's dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and providing a recreational oasis in the midst of Minnesota's natural beauty. With its rich history dating back to the Works Progress Administration era, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and utilizing water resources for both practical and leisure purposes. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, Smith Lake serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and environmental stewardship in maintaining sustainable water systems for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

42

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

LITTLE CLOQUET RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

220

Hydraulic Height

2.8

Drainage Area

23.7

Nid Storage

2517

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.