Leech Dam, also known as Leech Lake Reservoir, is a concrete dam located in Federal Dam, Minnesota.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1885, it serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, navigation, water supply, and recreation. The dam stands at 13 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 680,000 acre-feet, with a surface area of 117,500 acres and a drainage area of 1,163 square miles.
Despite being classified as a significant hazard dam, recent risk assessments suggest that Leech Dam is at a lower risk level due to its ability to withstand floods exceeding design standards. The US Army Corps of Engineers, which owns and manages the dam, continuously monitors and maintains its condition to reduce risks to the public. Plans to evaluate fish passage at Leech have been proposed, although such modifications do not directly relate to dam safety concerns. Overall, Leech Dam represents a vital water resource in Minnesota, providing both recreational opportunities and essential flood protection measures.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
3314 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
LEECH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
117500 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1163 |
Nid Storage |
680000 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 21, Slide (sluice gate) - 5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Mississippi River Near Bemidji
|
169cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
633cfs |
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Straight River Near Park Rapids
|
46cfs |
Crow Wing River At Nimrod
|
279cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Leech Lake Rec Area
|
||
Leech Lake -COE
|
||
Six Mile Lake Campground
|