Sturgeon Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sturgeon Lake in Minnesota is a gravity dam completed in 1936 for recreational purposes, with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 7 feet, with a hydraulic height of 3.2 feet and a structural height of 8 feet. It has a storage capacity of 75,599 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,050 acres, making it an ideal location for water activities such as boating and fishing.

The dam is located in St. Louis County, Minnesota, near Side Lake, and is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. It has a low hazard potential and has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition, with an inspection frequency of every 8 years. The risk assessment for the dam is very high, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Sturgeon Lake is a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts, offering a picturesque setting along the Sturgeon River. With its controlled spillway and recreational focus, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community and visitors alike. The presence of State regulation, inspection, and enforcement ensures that the dam remains safe and functional for years to come, providing a valuable water resource for all to enjoy.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

STURGEON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2050

Hydraulic Height

3.2

Drainage Area

48.5

Nid Storage

75599

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.