Clear Dark Little Lakes Reservoir Report
Nearby: Koochiching Wetland Eel Lake
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Clear Dark Little Lakes, located in Koochiching, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam constructed in 1958 for purposes other than flood control.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at 7 feet tall and spans 12 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2904 acre-feet and a surface area of 78 acres. The dam is situated on the Lost River-TR stream and falls under the jurisdiction of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Clear Dark Little Lakes plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the region. With a maximum discharge of 205 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to the management of the 3.1 square mile drainage area. While the dam has not undergone recent modifications, its last inspection in August 2017 revealed its operational integrity, ensuring its continued function in water resource management for the community of GREMMEL.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts monitoring Clear Dark Little Lakes can appreciate the dam's historical significance and practical contribution to the local ecosystem. As part of the St. Paul District's infrastructure, the dam serves as a key feature in the region's water management strategy, highlighting the collaborative efforts between state agencies and the local community to maintain sustainable water resources. With its regulated state ownership and adherence to inspection and enforcement protocols, Clear Dark Little Lakes stands as a testament to responsible dam operations in Minnesota's landscape.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
12 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
LOST RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
78 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
2904 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Fork River At Big Falls
|
169cfs |
Little Fork River At Littlefork
|
160cfs |
Mississippi River Near Bemidji
|
169cfs |
Rapid River Near Baudette
|
91cfs |
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Red Lake River Near Red Lake
|
385cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Clear Dark Little Lakes