Lower Red Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Red Dam, also known as Red Lake Reservoir, is a federal-owned structure located in Thief River Falls, Minnesota.


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Summary

Built in 1931 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,428,000 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it serves as a crucial component in managing water levels along the Red Lake River.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 64 feet and is equipped with four slide gates for water release. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages flood risks associated with the dam by monitoring its condition, engaging with emergency managers, and updating emergency action plans.

Overall, Lower Red Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. As climate change continues to pose challenges, it is essential to prioritize the maintenance and monitoring of such critical infrastructure to safeguard communities and the environment from potential risks.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

36500

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

RED LAKE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

288640

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1921

Nid Storage

3428000

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.