Knife Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carda Impoundment Ann Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Knife Lake, located in Kanabec County, Minnesota, is a captivating fish and wildlife pond with a significant impact on the local ecosystem.
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Summary
Built in 1983 by the USDA NRCS, this Buttress type dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 725 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 11,374 acre-feet, Knife Lake covers an impressive surface area of 1,277 acres and serves as a vital habitat for numerous aquatic species.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Knife Lake is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and environmental sustainability. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and the hazard potential is considered significant, requiring regular inspections every four years. Despite the moderate risk assessment, the condition assessment in 2017 deemed the dam to be satisfactory, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
With its picturesque location along the Knife River and the dedication of various agencies in its management and upkeep, Knife Lake stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resource management and climate conservation efforts. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Knife Lake offers a prime example of how human ingenuity and environmental stewardship can work hand in hand to create a sustainable ecosystem for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
725 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
KNIFE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
1277 |
Drainage Area |
92 |
Nid Storage |
11374 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Snake River Near Pine City
|
138cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
Rum River Near St. Francis
|
209cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
Elk River Near Big Lake
|
274cfs |
Mississippi River At St. Cloud
|
1570cfs |
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.
Knife Lake