Island Lake North Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Island Lake North Dike, located in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, is a crucial structure regulating the flow of the Cloquet River. This dam was completed in 1915 and serves primarily for hydroelectric power generation, as well as recreation. With a height of 21 feet and a length of 1100 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 177,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 10,800 acres, making it a significant water resource in the region.

The dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, ensuring its safe operation and compliance with environmental regulations. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available. With a maximum discharge of 7,445 cubic feet per second, the Island Lake North Dike plays a critical role in managing water levels and protecting downstream areas from flooding.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and hydroelectric infrastructure, the Island Lake North Dike remains a key component in the region's water management system. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for both energy production and recreational activities, this dam serves as a vital link between water resource management and climate resilience in Minnesota.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Cloquet River

Surface Area

10800

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

177000

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds