Velvet Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Velvet Lake, also known as Phelps Lake, is a gravity dam located in Crow Wing, Minnesota, with a structural height of 8 feet and a hydraulic height of 1.9 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1937, this state-regulated dam serves as a vital water resource on the Pine River, providing a normal storage capacity of 525 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1050 acre-feet. With a surface area of 160 acres and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, Velvet Lake plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and controlling the flow of the river.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Velvet Lake poses a moderate risk according to the data. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge capacity of 540 cubic feet per second. The last inspection was conducted in 2016, with an inspection frequency of every 8 years. The dam is equipped with emergency action plans, although details on their preparation and revision are not specified. Overall, Velvet Lake serves as a valuable asset in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As an integral part of the St. Paul District, Velvet Lake's purpose extends beyond flood control to support various water-related activities. Its historical significance as a Works Progress Administration - Civilian Conservation Corps (WPA-C) project adds to its cultural and environmental importance. With its location in the picturesque city of Riverton, Velvet Lake stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water infrastructure projects and the importance of sustainable water resource management in Minnesota.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

30

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

PINE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

160

Hydraulic Height

1.9

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

1050

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.