Dead Lake East, located in Otter Tail County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam with a core type of buttress that was completed in 1938 by the WPA-C. The dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a hydraulic height of 1.8 feet, providing storage for up to 100,204 acre-feet of water. With a normal storage capacity of 77,080 acre-feet and a surface area of 7,534 acres, Dead Lake East plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam, situated on County Ditch 28, serves as a crucial structure for the seasonal dwellings in the region, with a low hazard potential but a poor condition assessment as of December 2011. Despite its deteriorating state, the dam is still under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Environmental and Water Resources division. The last inspection of Dead Lake East took place in August 2018, with a frequency of every 8 years, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety.

As a significant piece of infrastructure in Otter Tail County, Dead Lake East faces challenges in terms of its condition and potential risks. Climate change and increasing water demands further emphasize the importance of properly managing and maintaining this dam to safeguard water resources for the community and the environment. With its historical significance and role in water resource management, Dead Lake East remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable infrastructure development and resilience planning.