Many Point Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Many Point Lake in Becker, Minnesota is a state-regulated body of water with a concrete gravity dam completed in 1938 by the WPA-C.


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Summary

The dam stands at 12 feet high and has a storage capacity of 8,000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 3,200 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 1,588 acres and has a drainage area of 40 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 700 cubic feet per second.

The Otter Tail River flows through Many Point Lake, which serves as a recreational spot for seasonal dwellings. The dam is primarily used for other purposes and is maintained by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR) with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. Despite a fair condition assessment, the dam has a low hazard potential but a very high risk assessment due to its age and potential for failure. Overall, Many Point Lake offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the beauty of Minnesota's natural landscapes.

With its historical significance dating back to the Works Progress Administration era, Many Point Lake remains a vital water resource in the region. The controlled spillway and buttress core design of the dam ensure efficient water management, while the low hazard potential indicates a relatively safe environment for recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the conservation and management of Many Point Lake serve as a testament to the importance of sustainable practices in preserving our natural ecosystems for future generations.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

55

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

OTTER TAIL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1588

Hydraulic Height

3

Drainage Area

40

Nid Storage

8000

Structural Height

12

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.