Deer Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Lake, located in Itasca County, Minnesota, is a picturesque reservoir created by a gravity dam constructed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration - Civil Works Division.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 6.1 meters, with a structural height of 8 meters and a hydraulic height of 1.7 meters. With a normal storage capacity of 248,360 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 324,984 acre-feet, Deer Lake covers a surface area of 3,958 acres and drains an area of 45 square miles through the Deer River.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Deer Lake serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is regulated by the state agency for water resources, enforcement, permitting, and inspection. The dam, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, is associated with the Deer River and provides essential water resource management for the surrounding area. With its tranquil waters and lush surroundings, Deer Lake is a vital water resource and a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Northwoods, Deer Lake offers a serene setting for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its functional role in water management, makes Deer Lake a compelling destination for both water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of nature and infrastructure in Minnesota's stunning landscape.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

43

Dam Height

6.1

River Or Stream

DEER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3958

Hydraulic Height

1.7

Drainage Area

45

Nid Storage

324984

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.