Crow Wing 5th Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crow Wing 5th Lake, located in Hubbard County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam constructed in 1938 with a primary purpose that falls under the category of 'Other.' Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam on the Crow Wing River serves as a crucial water resource in the region.


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Summary

With a height of 9 feet and a capacity to store 6,664 acre-feet of water, it plays a significant role in regulating water flow and providing essential services to the local community.

Despite its age, Crow Wing 5th Lake is deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition according to the last assessment conducted in 2009. The dam's inspection frequency is every 8 years, with the most recent inspection taking place in July 2018. With state regulatory agencies overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement, the dam is well-maintained and poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. Additionally, the dam has not been modified in recent years, indicating a stable and reliable structure that continues to fulfill its intended function for water resource management.

Crow Wing 5th Lake offers a glimpse into the intricate network of water infrastructure in Minnesota, showcasing the state's commitment to managing and safeguarding its valuable water resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like this dam play a crucial role in ensuring water security for both human and environmental needs. With its historical significance and ongoing functionality, Crow Wing 5th Lake stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

CROW WING RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

3.5

Drainage Area

168

Nid Storage

6664

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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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.