Pillager Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stanchfield Lake Sylvan Dike No. 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Pillager is a historic hydroelectric dam located in Pillager, Minnesota, along the Crow Wing River.
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Summary
Built in 1917, this dam stands at 22 feet tall and stretches 903 feet in length, with a maximum discharge capacity of 21,000 cubic feet per second. With a normal storage capacity of 4,608 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 4,853 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Pillager Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential due to its location and structural characteristics. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is rated as "Very High (1)", highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The dam features a controlled spillway and two slide gates for water release, and it is subject to regular state inspection, enforcement, and permitting by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pillager Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of hydroelectric infrastructure and its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. Its location in Cass County, Minnesota, and its role in regulating water flow on the Crow Wing River make it a key player in the region's water management strategies. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate risks associated with the dam, its importance in balancing water supply, flood control, and environmental preservation becomes increasingly evident in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1917 |
Dam Length |
903 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
Crow Wing |
Surface Area |
768 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
3230 |
Nid Storage |
4853 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Crow Wing River Near Pillager
|
708cfs |
Mississippi River At Brainerd
|
972cfs |
Crow Wing River At Nimrod
|
279cfs |
Long Prairie River At Long Prairie
|
122cfs |
Mississippi River Near Royalton
|
2290cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Pillsbury State Forest- Walter Stark Horse Camp
Crow Wing State Park
Crow Wing State Park Campground
Rock Lake Campground
Gulf Lake- Cor of Engineers Campground
Pillager
Pillager Dam Road Cass County