Devil Track Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Devil Track, located in Grand Marais, Minnesota, is a federal-owned dam on the Devil Track River with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1987, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 17,000 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1,873 acres and a drainage area of 24 square miles, Devil Track provides a serene setting for fishing, wildlife observation, and other recreational activities.

Managed by the Forest Service, Devil Track Dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for condition assessment. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 25 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 900 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, Devil Track Dam is equipped to handle potential emergencies, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. The dam's surrounding area is well-maintained for public safety and enjoyment, aligning with its primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for visitors.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Devil Track as a vital piece of infrastructure in Cook County, Minnesota. With its strategic location on the Devil Track River and its role in managing water flow and storage, Devil Track Dam contributes to the region's ecosystem health and recreational offerings. As a federally regulated structure under the oversight of the Forest Service, Devil Track Dam is a testament to responsible water resource management and serves as a valuable asset for residents and visitors alike to enjoy and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

5

River Or Stream

DEVIL TRACK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1873

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

24

Nid Storage

17000

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.