Lake Aaron Reservoir Report
Nearby: Moses Lake Anderson Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Aaron, located in Douglas County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated reservoir with a primary purpose classified as "Other." The dam, completed in 1964, is a gravity type structure with a height of 8 feet and a length of 10 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 178,500 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 190,000 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 611 acres. The drainage area for Lake Aaron is 6.5 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 95 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lake Aaron poses a low hazard potential and has been assessed as satisfactory in condition. The last inspection conducted in June 2016 deemed the dam structurally sound. The reservoir serves as an important water resource for the surrounding area, with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and longevity. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will be intrigued by the unique design and purpose of Lake Aaron, as well as its role in managing water flow on the Chippewa River.
With its picturesque location in Millerville, Minnesota, Lake Aaron offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The reservoir's association with the Chippewa River adds to its ecological significance, providing a habitat for diverse flora and fauna. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and monitoring the management of reservoirs like Lake Aaron becomes increasingly important for conservation efforts and sustainable water management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
10 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
CHIPPEWA RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
611 |
Drainage Area |
6.5 |
Nid Storage |
190000 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Chippewa Co Park
|
||
Chippewa County Park Campground
|
||
Prairie Cove Campground
|
||
Inspiration Point at Twin Oaks
|
||
Luther Crest Bible Camp
|
Lake Aaron
Douglas County