Dayton Hollow Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dayton Hollow Dam in Breckenridge, Minnesota, is a captivating structure that has been serving as a hydroelectric facility since it was completed in 1909.


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Summary

Situated on the Ottertail River, this gravity dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 5000 acre-feet. The dam's primary purposes include hydroelectric power generation, as well as providing a fish and wildlife pond and recreational opportunities.

Owned by a Public Utility, Dayton Hollow Dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a controlled spillway and seven slide gates for water release, the dam has a low hazard potential but is classified as having a very high risk due to its age and structural characteristics. Despite its risk rating, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and energy production in the region.

With its historic significance and importance in supporting the local ecosystem and community, Dayton Hollow Dam serves as a symbol of innovation and resilience in harnessing the power of water resources for sustainable development. As climate change impacts water availability and hydroelectric potential, the continued operation and maintenance of dams like Dayton Hollow will be essential for ensuring a reliable and renewable source of energy for future generations.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Ottertail River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

230

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

1810

Nid Storage

5000

Structural Height

41

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

41
       
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.