Friberg (Taplin Gorge) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Friberg (Taplin Gorge) is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, along the scenic Ottertail River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1925, this gravity dam stands at 31 feet tall and spans 340 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 5,000 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, fish and wildlife habitat enhancement, and recreational opportunities for visitors.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Friberg (Taplin Gorge) is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safe operation. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment ranking, the dam is equipped with controlled spillways and a combination of slide and tainter gates for water release. The surrounding area offers a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Ottertail River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

350

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

1230

Nid Storage

5000

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 6, Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.