Splitrock Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Splitrock Lake in Minnesota is a stunning rockfill dam that was completed in 1937 by the WPA-CW, standing at a height of 34.6 feet and stretching 300 feet in length.


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Summary

With a storage capacity of 540 acre-feet and a surface area of 80 acres, this dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Situated on the Split Rock Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring water availability for various purposes.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Splitrock Lake is regulated, inspected, and enforced to maintain its integrity and safety. The dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential, but its condition is assessed as fair as of 2008. The dam's primary purpose is listed as 'Other,' indicating its versatile role in water resource management. With a drainage area of 31 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 3000 cubic feet per second, Splitrock Lake plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the region.

Located in Pipestone, Minnesota, Splitrock Lake is an integral part of the water infrastructure in the area. With its historical significance and environmental impact, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Splitrock Lake continues to be a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

34.6

River Or Stream

SPLIT ROCK CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

31

Nid Storage

540

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.