Breckenridge Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Breckenridge Lake, located in Wilkin County, Minnesota, is a rockfill dam completed in 1935 for water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 13 feet and a length of 59 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 1,486 acre-feet of water. The reservoir, situated on the Otter Tail River, serves as a vital source of water for the city of Breckenridge and surrounding areas.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Breckenridge Lake has a low hazard potential and is classified as structurally satisfactory. The dam undergoes regular inspections every 8 years to ensure its safety and functionality. The surrounding area boasts a drainage area of 1,867 acres, providing ample water resources for various uses.

Despite its modest size, Breckenridge Lake plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam's reliable water supply, coupled with its satisfactory condition, underscores its importance in supporting the community's water needs and highlights the significance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

59

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

OTTER TAIL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Drainage Area

1867

Nid Storage

1486

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.