Snelling Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Snelling Lake, also known as Fort Snelling State Park, is a water resource located in Hennepin County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this state-regulated lake serves various purposes, including recreational activities and environmental conservation. Built in 1965, the lake is primarily a buttress dam with a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 1232 acre-feet.

With a surface area of 103 acres and a drainage area of 1.4 square miles, Snelling Lake plays a critical role in the local ecosystem by providing essential habitat for wildlife and supporting water quality in the Minnesota River. The dam's low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment make it a reliable structure for flood control and water management in the region. Additionally, the lake's proximity to Fort Snelling State Park offers visitors a serene natural setting for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

As a vital component of the St. Paul District's water infrastructure, Snelling Lake represents a harmonious blend of human engineering and natural beauty. Its historic significance, combined with its modern-day recreational and environmental value, makes it a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the interconnectedness of water management, conservation, and outdoor recreation in Minnesota's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

6

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MINNESOTA RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

103

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

1232

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.