Mcdougal Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

McDougal Lake, located in Winton, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam on the Stony River with a primary purpose categorized as "Other." Built in 1942, this gravity dam stands at 8 feet tall with a structural height of 10 feet and a length of 96 feet.


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Summary

It has a normal storage capacity of 3850 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 4430 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 71.1 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of its last inspection in 2013, McDougal Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam's design, by WPA-C, incorporates buttress core types and stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the time. The dam's location within the Detroit District and its association with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources underscore its significance in the state's water infrastructure.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find McDougal Lake Dam a fascinating subject of study, especially considering its historical significance and its role in managing water flow in the region. With its state-regulated status, low hazard potential, and fair condition assessment, this gravity dam stands as a testament to the careful planning and engineering that went into its construction in 1942. Its association with the Stony River and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources adds to its importance in the state's water management efforts.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

96

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

STONY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

273

Hydraulic Height

1.9

Drainage Area

71.1

Nid Storage

4430

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.