Winsted Lake, located in McLeod County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated water resource with a dam constructed in 1954 for various purposes. This Buttress-type dam stands at a height of 7 feet and spans 46 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 3,672 acre-feet. With a surface area of 376 acres and a drainage area of 26.6 square miles, Winsted Lake plays a vital role in managing water levels and flow in the Crow River South Fork-Trout stream.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Winsted Lake is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Environmental and Water Resources division. The lake's primary purpose remains classified as "Other," reflecting its versatile role in water resource management. With a normal storage capacity of 2,448 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 520 cubic feet per second, Winsted Lake serves as a crucial component of the local ecosystem and water infrastructure in the region.

Winsted Lake's significance extends beyond its physical dimensions, as its role in flood control, water storage, and environmental management underscores the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the complexities of sustainable water management, Winsted Lake stands as a tangible example of how infrastructure and natural systems can coexist to support the needs of communities and ecosystems alike.