Dry Sand Lake Wma Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dry Sand Lake WMA in Cass, Minnesota is a state-regulated area that serves as a fish and wildlife pond, with Farnham Creek and JD 7 flowing nearby.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1964, is primarily used for flood control and habitat preservation, with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2015. The WMA covers a drainage area of 3.6 square miles and has a normal storage capacity of 750 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the local ecosystem.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Dry Sand Lake WMA is located in Motley and covers a surface area that supports a variety of wildlife species. With a maximum discharge of 375 cfs, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maintaining the environmental balance in the region. The WMA is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation.

Visitors to Dry Sand Lake WMA can explore the diverse habitats surrounding the dam, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands that support a wide range of plant and animal species. The area's conservation efforts, combined with its recreational opportunities, make it a valuable resource for both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources and climate conservation.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

20

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

FARNHAM CREEK & JD 7

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

1625

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.
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Nearby Reservoirs