Rice-Skunk Lakes Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pierz Lake Little Falls
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Rice-Skunk Lakes, located in Morrison County, Minnesota, are reservoirs managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for flood risk reduction along the Platte River.
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Summary
The dam, constructed in 1971, stands at 8 feet tall and stretches 363 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 2951 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 394 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 9970 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding in the region.
The primary purpose of Rice-Skunk Lakes is flood risk reduction, and it is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in April 2015, with a satisfactory condition assessment. The reservoirs offer a serene landscape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and birdwatching. With its strategic location and important role in flood control, Rice-Skunk Lakes serve as a vital resource for both the local community and the environment.
Managed by the state and situated in a picturesque setting, Rice-Skunk Lakes exemplify the intersection of water resource management and environmental protection. As a key component of the flood risk reduction system along the Platte River, the dam serves as a testament to sustainable water infrastructure practices. Its design and construction reflect a commitment to safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events, while also providing recreational opportunities for visitors to appreciate the beauty and resilience of the natural landscape.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
363 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
PLATTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Drainage Area |
394 |
Nid Storage |
2951 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River Near Royalton
|
5320cfs |
Crow Wing River Near Pillager
|
643cfs |
Sauk River Near St. Cloud
|
225cfs |
Mississippi River At St. Cloud
|
2400cfs |
Long Prairie River At Long Prairie
|
122cfs |
Mississippi River At Brainerd
|
972cfs |
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.
Genola Park and Campground
Charles Lindbergh State Park
Charles A Lindbergh State Park
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park Group Site
Pierz City Park Campground
Pierz Park
Rice-Skunk Lakes
Little Falls
Blanchard Dam
To Ends One Mile Downstream From The Southern Village Boundary Of Rice