Whiteface Lake Northwest Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiteface Lake Northwest Dike, located in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, is a vital structure for hydroelectric power generation and recreation purposes. Built in 1922, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and has a storage capacity of 46,900 acre-feet, with a surface area of 4,800 acres. The dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The dam's low hazard potential is complemented by its regular inspection and enforcement, ensuring its safety and functionality. With the Skunk River and Whiteface River flowing nearby, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its age, the Whiteface Lake Northwest Dike has stood the test of time and continues to serve as a reliable asset for water management and energy production in the area.

Overall, Whiteface Lake Northwest Dike serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As a key component of the region's infrastructure, this dam showcases the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in ensuring the efficient utilization of water resources for both economic and recreational purposes. Its history, design, and regulatory oversight highlight the critical role that such structures play in maintaining a balance between human needs and ecological sustainability in a changing climate.

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.