Whiteface Lake South Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiteface Lake South Dike in Minnesota is a fascinating structure primarily used for hydroelectric purposes, showcasing its historical significance as it was completed in 1922.


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Summary

The dam stands at 36 feet high and has a storage capacity of 46,900 acre-feet, making it a crucial water resource management asset in the region. The dam also serves recreational purposes, attracting enthusiasts interested in exploring the 4,800-acre surface area and the Skunk River and Whiteface River nearby.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Whiteface Lake South Dike is a well-regulated and inspected structure, ensuring its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water levels and supporting the local ecosystem. With its location in St. Louis County, Minnesota, the dam remains an integral part of the landscape, offering both practical and recreational benefits to the surrounding community.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, the Whiteface Lake South Dike serves as a testament to the intersection of hydroelectric power generation and environmental conservation. Its presence not only contributes to the energy needs of the region but also provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Minnesota.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Skunk River, Whiteface River

Surface Area

4800

Nid Storage

46900

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
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.