Spruce Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spruce Creek, also known as Spruce Center Dam, is a state-owned water resource located in Douglas County, Minnesota.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam holds a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. With a structural height of 27 feet and a length of 500 feet, Spruce Creek provides a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 40 acres.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2017, Spruce Creek poses a significant hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every four years. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk assessment level indicate the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. Situated in a scenic location near Spruce Center, this dam serves as a vital water resource within the region, supporting both recreational activities and environmental conservation efforts.

As one of the key water infrastructure projects in the area, Spruce Creek's significance lies in its contribution to local water management and conservation efforts. With its proximity to the Omaha District and the oversight of state regulatory agencies, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality, supporting wildlife habitats, and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and management of structures like Spruce Creek are essential for ensuring sustainable water usage and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

SPRUCE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Drainage Area

30

Nid Storage

600

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.