Dead Lake West Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dead Lake East Phelps Mill Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dead Lake West, located in Otter Tail, Minnesota, is a gravity dam constructed in 1938 with a primary purpose marked as 'Other'.
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Summary
This structure, with a height of 6.9 feet and a hydraulic height of 1.6 feet, serves as a key component in managing water resources in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 77,080 acre-feet and a drainage area of 126 square miles, Dead Lake West plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Dead River.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Dead Lake West is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam, with a storage capacity of 100,204 acre-feet, covers a surface area of 7,534 acres. As an essential part of the water infrastructure, the dam contributes to flood control, water supply, and recreational activities in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Dead Lake West to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices in Minnesota.
With Collin Peterson representing the area in Congress, the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees Dead Lake West. The dam has not been rated for its condition yet, and there are no emergency action plans currently in place. As a historical structure designed by WPA-C, Dead Lake West stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. Enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources, climate change, and infrastructure will find Dead Lake West to be a compelling case study in sustainable water management.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
40 |
Dam Height |
6.9 |
River Or Stream |
DEAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
7534 |
Hydraulic Height |
1.6 |
Drainage Area |
126 |
Nid Storage |
100204 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
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