Fletcher Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fletcher Creek, located in Bigfork, Minnesota, is a federal-owned structure completed in 1973 with a primary purpose designated as "Other".


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Summary

This structure, which spans 250 meters in length and stands at 8 meters in height, serves as a key component in managing the water resources of the area. With a normal storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 500 acre-feet, Fletcher Creek plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of water in the region.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Fletcher Creek has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam, constructed with an earth and buttress core type, provides vital support to the surrounding ecosystem by controlling the drainage area of 5 square miles and allowing for a maximum discharge of 50 cubic feet per second. Despite its importance in water resource management, Fletcher Creek has not been subject to state jurisdiction, regulation, permitting, or inspection, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure its functionality and safety in the face of potential climate challenges.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like Fletcher Creek in mitigating risks and adapting to new conditions. The location, design, and purpose of Fletcher Creek make it a valuable asset in maintaining the balance of water resources in the region, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its effectiveness in the face of evolving climate patterns. Enthusiasts and stakeholders invested in water resource management and climate adaptation can look to Fletcher Creek as a case study in the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

FLETCHER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.