Black Bear Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Black Bear Lake, located in Crow Wing, Minnesota, is a picturesque reservoir on the Mississippi River managed by the state.


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Summary

Built in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA-C), this gravity dam stands at 8 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 6,716 acre-feet. With a surface area of 210 acres and a normal storage capacity of 5,840 acre-feet, Black Bear Lake serves as a vital water resource in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Black Bear Lake is considered to have a very high risk, which requires careful monitoring and management. The dam features a controlled spillway and is designed for other purposes beyond flood control or water supply. With its strategic location and historical significance, Black Bear Lake is a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and sustainability of reservoirs in Minnesota.

With its unique design and historical significance, Black Bear Lake is a captivating destination for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience. Managed by the state of Minnesota, this gravity dam provides essential water storage on the Mississippi River. Despite its low hazard potential, the reservoir is categorized as having a very high risk, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management efforts to ensure its continued safety and functionality. For enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability, Black Bear Lake offers a fascinating case study in reservoir management and risk assessment.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

27

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER - TR

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

210

Hydraulic Height

2.5

Nid Storage

6716

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.