Carp Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Grant County, Minnesota, Carp is a gravity dam built in 1951 on Pelican Creek.


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Summary

This state-regulated structure serves as a water resource for the region, providing a storage capacity of 620 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 25 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 30 feet in length, with a low hazard potential and overall satisfactory condition assessment.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Carp Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management within the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 520 cubic feet per second, the dam helps regulate water flow and maintain the ecological balance of Pelican Creek. Despite its age, the dam continues to be inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in August 2017, ensuring its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

As a significant feature in the local water infrastructure, Carp Dam not only provides essential water storage but also contributes to the overall ecological health of the region. With state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, the dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between government agencies and environmental stakeholders to sustainably manage water resources and mitigate potential risks associated with dam operations.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

30

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

PELICAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

620

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.