Moose-Willow 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Moose-Willow 1, located in Aitkin, Minnesota, is a state-regulated fish and wildlife pond built in 1960 with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats.


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Summary

This Earth dam, with a height of 12 feet and a length of 500 feet, has a maximum storage capacity of 750 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 450 acre-feet. The dam also serves as a controlled spillway with a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR), Moose-Willow 1 plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the area. With a drainage area of 6.8 square miles and a surface area of 100 acres, this dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding environment, ensuring the conservation of the Moose River ecosystem. Despite its very high risk assessment rating, the dam has undergone regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

As a key component in the water resource management infrastructure of Minnesota, Moose-Willow 1 stands as a testament to the state's commitment to preserving its natural habitats and supporting biodiversity. With its strategic location and functional design, this dam exemplifies the balance between human development and environmental stewardship, making it a valuable asset for both wildlife enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MOOSE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Drainage Area

6.8

Nid Storage

750

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.