Deer Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Creek, located in Itasca County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam that serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Deer River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration - Civilian Conservation Corps (WPA-C), this gravity dam stands at a height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 3.5 feet and a structural height of 10 feet. With a storage capacity of 25,844 acre-feet and a drainage area of 46 square miles, Deer Creek plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing the risk of flooding in the surrounding area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Deer Creek dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in August 2017, with a frequency of every 8 years. While the dam is in a state of not being rated, it continues to function effectively in its flood risk reduction role. With the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Division of Ecological and Water Resources (MNDNR EWR) overseeing its regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Deer Creek dam remains a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. As a dedicated climate and water resource enthusiast, Deer Creek offers an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

59

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

DEER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

3.5

Drainage Area

46

Nid Storage

25844

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.