Fish Lake Outlet Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Fish Lake Outlet, located in Cottonwood, Minnesota, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1953 by MNDNR-BOE with a primary purpose of "Other." This dam, standing at a height of 7 feet and a length of 16 feet, serves to control the flow of the Watonwan River-TR and has a normal storage capacity of 4250 acre-feet.
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Summary
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR).
The outlet, situated in the city of Odin, plays a crucial role in managing water resources within the region, with a drainage area of 3 square miles and the ability to discharge up to 250 cubic feet per second. Although the dam's spillway type and width are unspecified, it serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control, irrigation, and water supply purposes. With its associated structures not specified and a history of state oversight dating back to its completion, Fish Lake Outlet exemplifies the careful management and regulation of water resources in Minnesota.
With a maximum storage capacity of 5915 acre-feet and a design rooted in buttress core types, Fish Lake Outlet is a key component of the St. Paul District's water management infrastructure. Its strategic location at S34 T105N R35W ensures efficient water flow and storage for the surrounding area, contributing to both environmental conservation and climate resilience efforts. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of structures like Fish Lake Outlet is essential for safeguarding our natural ecosystems and adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
16 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
WATONWAN RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
5915 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Fish Lake Outlet