Winsted Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Trophy Lake Little Waverly Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Winsted Lake, located in McLeod County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated water resource with a dam constructed in 1954 for various purposes.
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Summary
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.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
46 |
Dam Height |
4 |
River Or Stream |
CROW RIVER S FORK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
376 |
Drainage Area |
26.6 |
Nid Storage |
3672 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Crow River At Rockford
|
386cfs |
Minnesota River Near Jordan
|
2960cfs |
High Island Creek Near Henderson
|
5cfs |
Elk River Near Big Lake
|
274cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Champlin
|
5cfs |
Mississippi River At Anoka
|
3810cfs |
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.
Winsted Lake