Cross Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chengwatana State Forest Mans Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cross Lake, located in Pine County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated concrete dam constructed in 1938 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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Summary
The dam spans 244 feet in length and stands at a height of 10 feet, with a storage capacity of 14,670 acre-feet and a normal storage of 10,156 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 1,013 acres and is fed by the Snake River, with a drainage area of 968 square miles.
The dam at Cross Lake serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a satisfactory condition assessment. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 7,750 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3, there are currently no inundation maps prepared, and the last inspection was conducted in July 2013 with a frequency of every 8 years. Despite its age, Cross Lake Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Overall, Cross Lake Dam is a significant infrastructure asset in Minnesota, providing essential water storage and flood control capabilities. Its historical construction by the WPA and ongoing state regulation by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources showcase the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. With a moderate risk level and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam remains a key element in the region's water resource management efforts, ensuring the safety and security of nearby communities and supporting sustainable development practices.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
244 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
SNAKE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1013 |
Drainage Area |
968 |
Nid Storage |
14670 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Snake River Near Pine City
|
127cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
St. Croix River At St. Croix Falls
|
1470cfs |
St. Croix River Near Danbury
|
1650cfs |
Rum River Near St. Francis
|
209cfs |
Elk River Near Big Lake
|
274cfs |
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.
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Cross Lake
1st Avenue Northeast 34, Pine City