Sibley Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sibley Lake, located in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, is a serene body of water with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1937.


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Summary

The dam that forms Sibley Lake is a gravity type structure with a height of 5.95 feet and a length of 41 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 11,730 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 10,200 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 418 acres and is fed by Mayo Creek, making it a vital part of the local ecosystem.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Sibley Lake presents a very high risk level due to its critical importance in water resource management. The lake serves as a controlled spillway with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,225 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper water flow and management during periods of high precipitation. With its picturesque surroundings and strategic location, Sibley Lake is not only a recreational spot for outdoor enthusiasts but also a key component in maintaining water levels and quality in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Sibley Lake to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices in action.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

41

Dam Height

5.95

River Or Stream

MAYO CREEK - TR

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

418

Drainage Area

55

Nid Storage

11730

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.