Lake Shetek Outlet Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Shetek Outlet, located in Murray County, Minnesota, serves as a crucial water management structure on the Des Moines River.


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Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR), this gravity dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a structural height of 12 feet, with a length of 115 feet. The reservoir created by the dam has a storage capacity of 30,064 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 19,040 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 3,370 acres.

The dam, completed for purposes other than flood control, has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2018. Despite not having a spillway, Lake Shetek Outlet can discharge up to 3,500 cubic feet per second in cases of excess water flow. While the dam does not have outlet gates or associated locks, it plays a vital role in regulating water levels and ensuring water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and functionality, Lake Shetek Outlet is an integral part of the water infrastructure in the area, contributing to the overall environmental and climate resilience of the region.

Dam Length

115

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

DES MOINES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3370

Drainage Area

95

Nid Storage

30064

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.