Pelican Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Pelican Lake in Minnesota is a stunning body of water with a rich history dating back to 1938 when it was completed as a gravity dam designed by WPA-C.


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Summary

Located in the city of DUNVILLA within Otter Tail County, this state-regulated lake boasts a surface area of 3962 acres and a drainage area of 242 square miles, making it a vital water resource in the region. The dam stands at a height of 6 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 70,250 acre-feet, providing essential water management for the area.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Pelican Lake remains a valuable asset for the community. Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment. Additionally, the lake serves various purposes beyond just water management, highlighting its versatility and importance for both recreational and ecological needs. As a gravity dam with a hydraulic height of 3.5 feet, Pelican Lake stands as a testament to effective infrastructure design and management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

PELICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3962

Hydraulic Height

3.5

Drainage Area

242

Nid Storage

70250

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.