Winton is a hydroelectric dam located on the Kawishiwi River in Winton, Minnesota.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1923, this concrete, earth, and gravity dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a hydraulic height of 67 feet. With a storage capacity of 17,564 acre-feet, Winton provides not only hydroelectric power but also opportunities for recreation in the surrounding area.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Winton has a controlled spillway with a width of 302 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. The dam's maximum discharge is 24,300 cubic feet per second, serving the drainage area of 1,200 square miles. Despite its age, Winton remains in good condition, with regular inspections and state regulation ensuring its safety and functionality for both energy production and water resource management in the region.
The dam's location in Lake County, Minnesota, underscores its importance in the local water infrastructure, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric generation. Winton's historical significance as a key component in the region's energy supply, coupled with its role in recreation and water management, highlights the vital role it plays in the sustainable utilization of water resources amidst changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
732 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
Kawishiwi River |
Surface Area |
2983 |
Hydraulic Height |
67 |
Drainage Area |
1200 |
Nid Storage |
17564 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 5, Tainter (radial) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
67 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Fall Lake
|
||
Fall Lake Campground
|
||
Picket Lake
|
||
South Kawishiwi River
|
||
Fenske Lake Campground
|
||
South Kawishiwi River Campground
|