Gull Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gull Dam, also known as Gull Lake Reservoir, is a concrete dam located in Cass County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Built in 1912 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, along with other functions such as flood risk reduction, navigation, and water supply. The dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 75,300 acre-feet, with a surface area of 13,000 acres and a drainage area of 287 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Gull Dam is subject to very high flood risk due to its proximity to the Gull River. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages the dam-related flood risks by monitoring its condition, prioritizing risk-reduction activities, and working with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for potential emergencies. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and functionality, with emergency action plans regularly updated to mitigate risks and ensure swift responses in case of dam-related emergencies.

In the face of unpredictable severe weather events and potential overflow scenarios, Gull Dam serves as a critical infrastructure in managing water levels and protecting downstream areas. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the proactive risk management measures implemented by the US Army Corps of Engineers at Gull Dam highlights the importance of sustainable dam operations and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

276

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

GULL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

13000

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

287

Nid Storage

75300

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.