Lake Geneva Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Geneva, located in Alexandria, Minnesota, is a state-owned water resource known for its historical significance and recreational opportunities.


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Summary

Built in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA-C), this dam serves multiple purposes beyond flood control, including water supply and conservation. The dam stands at a height of 6 feet with a structural height of 8 feet and a length of 17 feet, providing a storage capacity of 18,657 acre-feet and a surface area of 635 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Lake Geneva is considered a safe and well-managed water resource. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 17 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 735 cubic feet per second. While the dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a designated inspection frequency, it remains a vital part of the Long Prairie River tributary system, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and climate conservationists alike.

Despite not being regularly inspected or rated for condition assessment, Lake Geneva's enduring presence as a state-owned dam underscores its importance in water management and conservation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, the significance of maintaining and preserving structures like Lake Geneva for future generations becomes increasingly crucial. With its rich history and recreational value, Lake Geneva serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

17

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

LONG PRAIRIE RIVER - TR

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

635

Drainage Area

29.1

Nid Storage

18657

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.