South Fowl Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

South Fowl Lake, located in Cook County, Minnesota, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose designated as "Other." Built in 1934 by ARPEN CANADA, this gravity dam stands at 17 feet tall and spans 90 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 30,780 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam's poor condition assessment in 2016 raises concerns about its long-term stability and maintenance, despite its low hazard potential.

Situated along the Pigeon River, South Fowl Lake covers a surface area of 1,440 acres and has a drainage area of 112.5 square miles. The reservoir's normal storage capacity is 18,468 acre-feet, supporting a variety of recreational activities and wildlife habitats in the surrounding area. While the dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ongoing inspections and enforcement efforts are necessary to ensure its continued safety and functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find South Fowl Lake to be a fascinating case study of a historic infrastructure project facing modern challenges. As discussions around dam safety and maintenance continue to evolve, the future of this iconic gravity dam will depend on proactive risk management measures and community engagement. With its scenic location and important role in water management, South Fowl Lake remains a valuable resource for both local stakeholders and environmental conservation efforts in Minnesota.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

PIGEON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1440

Hydraulic Height

3

Drainage Area

112.5

Nid Storage

30780

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.