Pelican Rapids Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pelican Rapids, located in Otter Tail County, Minnesota, is home to a gravity dam on the Pelican River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1870 and standing at a height of 16 feet, this structure serves primarily for recreational purposes. Despite its historical significance, the dam is in poor condition and has a high hazard potential, making it a cause for concern among water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Pelican Rapids dam has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 755 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 345 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of water in the region. However, its poor condition and high hazard potential underscore the need for diligent inspection, maintenance, and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of this important infrastructure.

Given its historical significance, recreational purpose, and high hazard potential, the Pelican Rapids dam presents a complex challenge for local authorities and environmental agencies. With a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)", stakeholders must work together to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate potential risks to surrounding communities and ecosystems. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for the sustainable management of our natural resources, the future of the Pelican Rapids dam remains a focal point for ongoing discussions and actions towards resilience and adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

17

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

PELICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

345

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.