Fairhaven Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cedar Lake Swart Watts Lake
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Fairhaven, located in Stearns County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam on the Clearwater River with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, the dam has a height of 16 feet and a length of 90 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 516 acre-feet of water. The dam, managed by the local government, is state regulated and monitored by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
The Fairhaven dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2013. With a drainage area of 94 square miles and a maximum discharge of 2120 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a valuable resource for water management and recreational activities in the area. The dam's location in a picturesque setting along the Clearwater River makes it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
Fairhaven dam's significance extends beyond its structural and functional aspects, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with water conservation efforts and learn about the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. As a well-maintained and regulated structure, Fairhaven exemplifies the balance between human development and environmental stewardship, serving as a model for responsible infrastructure that benefits both the community and the natural ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
90 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
CLEARWATER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Drainage Area |
94 |
Nid Storage |
645 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River At St. Cloud
|
2400cfs |
Sauk River Near St. Cloud
|
225cfs |
Elk River Near Big Lake
|
274cfs |
Crow River At Rockford
|
386cfs |
Mississippi River Near Royalton
|
3080cfs |
Elm Creek Nr Champlin
|
5cfs |
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.
Stanley Eddy Memorial Park Reserv (North)
Stanley Eddy Regional Park Reserve South
Schroeder County Park Campgrounds
Warner Lake CP--East Bicycle Camp
St. Cloud Clearwater RV Park
Fairhaven
Eclipse Road 9771, Stearns County
The Confluence Of The Clearwater River
To The Northwestern Corporate Boundary Of Anoka