Boulder Lake Dike Cc Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boulder Lake Dike Cc, located in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, is a key structure managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for hydroelectric purposes. Built in 1919, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 30,300 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, the dam also serves recreational activities in the area. The dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam on Otter Creek is associated with two other structures and is situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction. Despite its low hazard potential, Boulder Lake Dike Cc has not had a recent condition assessment available. The last inspection was conducted in September 2018, with an inspection frequency of every 3 years. While emergency action plans and risk management measures are not specified, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and energy production in the region.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Boulder Lake Dike Cc stands as a historic landmark in Minnesota's infrastructure landscape. With its dual purpose of hydroelectric power generation and recreational use, the dam plays a crucial role in balancing environmental conservation and energy needs. While its hazard potential is deemed low, ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight ensure the safety and integrity of this essential structure for the community and the surrounding ecosystem.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Otter Creek

Surface Area

4100

Nid Storage

30300

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.