Chippewa Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Chippewa Diversion Dam, also known as Watson Sag and Chippewa River Channel, is a federal-owned structure located in Minnesota.


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Summary

Completed in 1951, this earth dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional purposes including fish and wildlife pond creation, recreation, and water supply. The dam stands at 20 feet high and stretches 12,000 feet in length, with a maximum discharge capacity of 6,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as a low hazard dam, Chippewa Diversion Dam is considered a moderate-risk structure by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Concerns for overtopping near abutments and wing walls, as well as intermittent scour downstream, prompted this risk assessment. However, the potential consequences of a breach are minimal, with downstream impacts limited to a few inches in water surface profiles during large floods. To manage and mitigate these risks, USACE continuously monitors and maintains the dam to ensure its proper functioning and safety for surrounding communities.

USACE's risk management measures for Chippewa Diversion Dam include regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs as needed to reduce potential hazards to the public. By prioritizing activities that address the identified risks, USACE aims to maintain the dam's integrity and safeguard against potential issues. With a commitment to proactive risk management, Chippewa Diversion Dam continues to play a crucial role in flood risk reduction and water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

12000

Dam Height

5

River Or Stream

CHANNEL BUILT OFF CHIPPEWA RIV

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

81.3

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 1, Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.