St. Louis River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The St.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Louis River, located in Forbes, Minnesota, is a vital water supply structure owned by Oglebay Norton Co. The dam, completed in 1963, serves the primary purpose of water supply and is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 19 feet and a length of 126 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 26,000 cubic feet per second.

The St. Louis River dam is classified as having low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2009. Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam indicates a very high risk level (1). The structure is equipped with a controlled spillway and is not associated with any locks or associated structures. The St. Louis River plays a crucial role in water resource management in St. Louis County, Minnesota, with a drainage area of 715.5 square miles.

As a significant water supply source in the region, the St. Louis River dam underscores the importance of monitoring and maintaining water infrastructure to ensure the safety and security of communities that rely on it. With its regulated status and satisfactory condition, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices in the face of potential risks and challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the St. Louis River serves as a microcosm of the intricate balance between water supply needs and environmental considerations in the modern age.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

126

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

ST. LOUIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Drainage Area

715.5

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.