Prairie River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Prairie River, located in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, is a vital water resource managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1920, stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 17,000 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 6,700 cubic feet per second, Prairie River plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the region.

Despite its age, Prairie River dam has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating of 1, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's infrastructure includes slide and tainter gates for water release control, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the structure. Prairie River is part of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, contributing to the overall water management efforts in the area.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Itasca County, Prairie River serves as a prime example of sustainable water resource management. Its importance for both energy production and recreational activities underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential dam.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

1160

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Prairie Creek

Surface Area

2000

Drainage Area

446

Nid Storage

17000

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.