Summary
Louis County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam built in 1940 with a primary purpose of "Other." It stands at a height of 7.1 feet and has a structural height of 8 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 6,213 acre-feet. The dam spans 35 feet in length and covers a surface area of 341 acres, with a drainage area of 12.2 square miles.
The dam, managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment in 2009, the dam undergoes inspections every 8 years to ensure its safety and functionality. With a normal storage capacity of 5,232 acre-feet, Floodwood Lake serves as a vital resource for water management in the region and plays a crucial role in flood control and ecosystem preservation along the Floodwood River.
This historic structure, designed by WPA-BC, is a key feature in the landscape of the city of Floodwood and serves as a testament to the engineering ingenuity of the past. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, Floodwood Lake remains a critical asset for water supply and flood protection in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices to address the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
35 |
Dam Height |
7.1 |
River Or Stream |
FLOODWOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
341 |
Hydraulic Height |
1.2 |
Drainage Area |
12.2 |
Nid Storage |
6213 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
633cfs |
St. Louis River At Scanlon
|
693cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
Nemadji River Near South Superior
|
93cfs |
Knife River Near Two Harbors
|
9cfs |
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.
Floodwood Lake
Long Lake