Little Pine Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Pine Lake Rose Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little Pine Lake, located in Otter Tail, Minnesota, is a state-regulated reservoir on the Otter Tail River with a dam completed in 1933 by WPA-C.
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Summary
The gravity dam stands at 6 feet high and has a storage capacity of 67,200 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 2,100 acres for recreational activities and wildlife habitat. The dam's primary purpose is listed as 'Other', with satisfactory condition assessment and low hazard potential.
With a drainage area of 389 square miles, Little Pine Lake plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 63,000 acre-feet and can discharge up to 2,669 cubic feet per second. It is under the jurisdiction of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safe operation. The location's historical significance and engineering design make it a valuable asset for climate enthusiasts and water resource management professionals alike.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will be drawn to the rich history and functional importance of Little Pine Lake in Otter Tail, Minnesota. This state-regulated reservoir on the Otter Tail River showcases a gravity dam constructed in the 1930s, offering a glimpse into the past while serving as a vital component of the region's water management system today. With its impressive storage capacity, recreational opportunities, and low hazard potential, Little Pine Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
105 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
OTTER TAIL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
2100 |
Hydraulic Height |
2 |
Drainage Area |
389 |
Nid Storage |
67200 |
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.
Little Pine Lake
Otter Tail County