Winnibigoshish Dam - Dikes 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Winnibigoshish Dam, located in Cass County, Minnesota, is a key water resource managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Built in 1884, the dam serves multiple purposes, including water supply, flood risk reduction, navigation, and recreation. With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 550,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the structural integrity of the Mississippi River.

The dam's risk assessment indicates a significant hazard potential, with a very high risk rating. To mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers implements various risk management measures, such as regular monitoring, maintenance, and updating of emergency action plans. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 87 feet, helps manage water release during severe weather events, reducing the risk of flooding downstream. Overall, Winnibigoshish Dam - Dikes 2, 3, and 4 exemplify the importance of effective dam management in protecting water resources and communities from potential hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the critical role that dams like Winnibigoshish Dam play in ensuring water supply, flood control, and ecosystem management. By understanding and supporting the ongoing efforts of the US Army Corps of Engineers in managing and maintaining these structures, we can contribute to the sustainable management of our water resources and the resilience of our communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1884

Dam Length

962

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

68000

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1442

Nid Storage

550000

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.