Boulder Lake Dike Ee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boulder Lake Dike Ee, located in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, was completed in 1919 and serves as a vital structure for hydroelectric power generation and recreation. This earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 30,300 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 4,100 acres for various water activities. The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and is subject to state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

The dam is situated along Otter Creek and is associated with two other structures, collectively serving the purpose of water management and power generation. Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Boulder Lake Dike Ee undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2018. The dam is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers and does not have specific risk assessment or emergency action plans in place, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the surrounding environment and communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Boulder Lake Dike Ee in the local ecosystem and energy production is crucial. With its historical construction and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam symbolizes the delicate balance between human development and environmental preservation. By acknowledging its role in hydroelectric power generation and recreational opportunities, we can appreciate the complex interplay between water resources, infrastructure, and sustainable practices in the face of changing climates and evolving water management strategies.

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.