Round Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Round Lake in Becker, Minnesota, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

Constructed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration-Database (WPA-DB), this rockfill dam on the Otter Tail River stands at 9.5 feet high with a structural height of 14 feet and a length of 60 feet. With a storage capacity of 7,000 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes and has a normal storage level of 3,500 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 1,100 acres and draining a 43-square-mile watershed.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Round Lake poses a very high risk due to its critical role in water management. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 30 feet, ensuring a maximum discharge capacity of 750 cubic feet per second. Situated in the Omaha District and overseen by the Minnesota DNR, Round Lake serves as a vital water resource in the region, with its risk management measures yet to be detailed. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the Ponsford area would find Round Lake a captivating site for further exploration and study.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

9.5

River Or Stream

OTTER TAIL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1100

Hydraulic Height

1.9

Drainage Area

43

Nid Storage

7000

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.