Pelican River Reservoir Report
Nearby: Friberg (Taplin Gorge) Hoot Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Pelican River in Minnesota is a picturesque waterway that serves as a recreational haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
This private dam, completed in 1878 with a gravity design, stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 366 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, the Pelican River dam provides essential flood control and water management for the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, its current condition is deemed unsatisfactory, prompting regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.
Located in Otter Tail County, the Pelican River dam plays a crucial role in regulating the water flow of a drainage area spanning 467.4 square miles. The dam's maximum discharge capacity of 1940 cubic feet per second ensures efficient water management, while its normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet supports various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. The dam's proximity to the city of Elizabeth makes it easily accessible to visitors seeking outdoor adventures in a beautiful natural setting.
While the Pelican River dam presents a low risk of hazards, ongoing efforts are needed to address its unsatisfactory condition and ensure its long-term functionality. As a vital structure for water management and recreational activities, the Pelican River dam serves as a valuable asset to the community and a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to enjoy and appreciate the natural beauty of Minnesota's waterways.
Year Completed |
1878 |
Dam Length |
366 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
PELICAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
40 |
Drainage Area |
467.4 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Delagoon Rec Area
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Delagoon Park & Rec Area Camp
|
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Rothsay City Park
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Pelican River