Little Waverly Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Little Waverly Lake in Wright, Minnesota is a state-owned reservoir with a gravity dam completed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration - Civil (WPA-C).


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Summary

The dam stands at 7 feet tall and has a hydraulic height of 4.7 feet, creating a storage capacity of 2,780 acre-feet and a surface area of 330 acres. The reservoir is situated on the Twelvemile Creek and serves various purposes, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3,080 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Little Waverly Lake has been regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced for safety and environmental compliance. The dam is classified as low hazard potential and was deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in October 2015. The surrounding area is protected by state jurisdiction, ensuring proper management and emergency preparedness, although specific details on risk assessment and management measures are yet to be documented.

With its picturesque location and vital role in water resource management, Little Waverly Lake offers a glimpse into Minnesota's commitment to sustainable infrastructure. Whether exploring the historic dam or enjoying the recreational opportunities provided by the reservoir, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the careful planning and maintenance that go into preserving this essential piece of the state's natural landscape.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

81

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TWELVEMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

330

Hydraulic Height

4.7

Drainage Area

59.9

Nid Storage

2780

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.