Skunk Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Skunk Creek Dam, located in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, is a key hydroelectric structure built in 1922 on the Skunk River and Whiteface River. With a dam height of 39 feet and a length of 867 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 46,900 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4,800 acres. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities, making it a valuable resource in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Skunk Creek Dam has a controlled spillway and two slide gates for water release. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam faces a very high risk level due to its age and condition assessment being unavailable. The dam is under state regulation and inspection by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

With its historical significance and importance in water resource management, Skunk Creek Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As the dam continues to play a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation and recreational opportunities, its maintenance and risk management measures are essential to ensure its long-term sustainability and safety for the surrounding communities and environment.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

867

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Skunk River, Whiteface River

Surface Area

4800

Nid Storage

46900

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

39
       
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.