Ogemash Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ogemash, located in Becker County, Minnesota, is a federally-owned earth dam built in 1966 by the USF&W with a primary purpose classified as "Other." The dam, standing at a height of 8 feet and a length of 110 feet, has a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet and serves the Egg River watershed.
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Summary
Despite its low hazard potential, Ogemash plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.
With a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 200 cubic feet per second, Ogemash provides essential water management functions for the surrounding area. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," its inspection frequency is set at 8 years. Additionally, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, highlighting the need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the structure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and extreme weather events become more frequent, the role of dams like Ogemash in flood control and water supply management becomes increasingly vital. By staying abreast of maintenance needs, conducting regular inspections, and developing a comprehensive EAP, Ogemash can continue to fulfill its purpose of safeguarding the local community and environment from the potential risks associated with water management infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
110 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
EGG RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
20.3 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Straight River Near Park Rapids
|
46cfs |
Wild Rice River At Twin Valley
|
85cfs |
Buffalo River Near Hawley
|
24cfs |
Crow Wing River At Nimrod
|
279cfs |
Buffalo River Near Dilworth
|
84cfs |
Otter Tail River Near Elizabeth
|
111cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ogemash