Fox Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fox Lake, located in Beltrami, Minnesota, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This man-made reservoir, completed in 1939, serves multiple purposes including flood control, water supply, and recreation. The dam, standing at a height of 5.6 meters, has a normal storage capacity of 963 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 148 acres.

With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Fox Lake poses minimal risk to its surroundings. The dam on Turtle River-TR is primarily a buttress type structure with a structural height of 15 meters and a drainage area of 64.6 square kilometers. Despite its modest size, the reservoir plays a vital role in water management in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources worldwide, Fox Lake stands as a testament to effective state-regulated water management. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, this reservoir on Turtle River-TR is a model for responsible water resource governance. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the significance of such managed water bodies in ensuring the resilience of ecosystems and communities in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

5.6

River Or Stream

TURTLE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

148

Hydraulic Height

2.95

Drainage Area

64.6

Nid Storage

1284

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.