Lake Bemidji Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Bemidji, also known as Stump Lake, is a picturesque water resource located in Beltrami, Minnesota.


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Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this hydroelectric reservoir serves as a vital source of water and power for the region. The dam, completed in 1907, stands at a height of 24 feet and has a gravity design with a structural height of 33 feet. With a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet and a surface area of 201 acres, Lake Bemidji plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Surrounded by the beauty of the Mississippi River, Lake Bemidji covers a drainage area of 626 square miles and has a maximum discharge of 625 cubic feet per second. The dam's hazard potential is deemed as significant, but its condition is assessed as satisfactory, ensuring the safety and reliability of its operations. Despite its age, the dam continues to undergo regular inspections and maintenance to meet state regulations and ensure its structural integrity. With its rich history and strategic importance as a hydroelectric facility, Lake Bemidji stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

201

Drainage Area

626

Nid Storage

4500

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.