Portage Lake, located in Hubbard County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam constructed in 1938 with a primary purpose that falls under the "Other" category.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at 12 feet tall, with a hydraulic height of 6 feet and a structural height of 12 feet. It has a storage capacity of 5,320 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 422 acres, serving as a crucial water resource in the region.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR), Portage Lake is regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in May 2014, showing a satisfactory condition and low hazard potential. The dam's drainage area is 4.9 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 300 cubic feet per second. While the dam does not have associated locks or spillways, it plays a vital role in regulating water levels and supporting the surrounding ecosystem.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Portage Lake for its historical significance and contribution to water management in the area. With its serene location near the Portage River and the town of Park Rapids, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water infrastructure maintenance and regulation for sustainable resource utilization in Minnesota.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
11 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
PORTAGE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
422 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
4.9 |
Nid Storage |
5320 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Straight River Near Park Rapids
|
46cfs |
Crow Wing River At Nimrod
|
279cfs |
Mississippi River Near Bemidji
|
169cfs |
Crow Wing River Near Pillager
|
708cfs |
Wild Rice River At Twin Valley
|
85cfs |
Buffalo River Near Hawley
|
24cfs |