Mud Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herwig Pond Albert Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mud Lake is a fascinating water resource located in Henriette, Minnesota, along Mud Creek.
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Summary
This state-regulated dam, built in 1936 by the WPA-C, stands at a modest height of 6 feet with a gravity core type structure. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam serves an important function, offering a normal storage capacity of 1478 acre-feet and a drainage area of 38.1 square miles.
With a surface area of 249 acres and a maximum discharge of 1360 cubic feet per second, Mud Lake provides both recreational and environmental benefits to the local community. Its controlled spillway, satisfactory condition assessment, and very high risk assessment rating make it a key asset in managing water resources in Kanabec County. The dam's historical significance and ongoing state oversight ensure its continued operation for the benefit of water and climate enthusiasts in the region.
As a state-owned structure, Mud Lake is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, providing assurance of its safety and reliability. Its location in a scenic area surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With a rich history dating back to the New Deal era, Mud Lake stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
35 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
MUD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
249 |
Hydraulic Height |
0.9 |
Drainage Area |
38.1 |
Nid Storage |
2140 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Snake River Near Pine City
|
127cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
Rum River Near St. Francis
|
209cfs |
St. Croix River At St. Croix Falls
|
1470cfs |
St. Croix River Near Danbury
|
1650cfs |
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.
Mud Lake