Waukenabo Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Waukenabo Lake, located in Aitkin, Minnesota, is a picturesque reservoir that offers a variety of recreational activities for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this gravity dam was completed in 1938 and serves primarily for recreation purposes. With a structural height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 2.1 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 7,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 650 acres.
The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 18 feet, ensures water levels are properly managed, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. Despite being last inspected in October 2016, this dam on the Little Willow River-TR remains in good standing with the state regulatory agency, MNDNR EWR. The lake's drainage area of 12.1 square miles supports a normal storage capacity of 2,400 acre-feet, offering a safe and scenic environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
As the dam continues to provide essential water resource management for the region, its very high risk assessment (ranking 1 out of 5) underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With its stunning natural surroundings and recreational opportunities, Waukenabo Lake stands as a vital and well-managed resource in Minnesota's water infrastructure. For those passionate about preserving water resources and climate sustainability, this reservoir is a prime example of responsible stewardship and recreational enjoyment in harmony with nature.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
41 |
Dam Height |
6.2 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE WILLOW RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
650 |
Hydraulic Height |
2.1 |
Drainage Area |
12.1 |
Nid Storage |
7000 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
633cfs |
Mississippi River At Brainerd
|
972cfs |
Crow Wing River Near Pillager
|
708cfs |
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
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.
Waukenabo Lake
The Boundary Between Logan And Workman Townships In Aitkin County To The Dam Entrance Of The Flood Diversion Channel