Roseau River Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brown's Lake Moose River Project
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Roseau River, located in Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1932, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 1700 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and a drainage area of 41.5 square miles, the dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Roseau River dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2009. Regular inspections are conducted every 8 years to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. Although the dam does not have a spillway or locks, its presence contributes to the recreational opportunities and water supply for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Roseau River represents a significant aspect of the local ecosystem, providing both recreational benefits and water management capabilities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
ROSEAU RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
41.5 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Roseau River