Summary
This dam serves as a crucial structure along the Buffalo River-TR, providing storage capacity of 1435 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 178 acre-feet. With a surface area of 103 acres and a drainage area of 1.4 square miles, Balsam Lake plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Balsam Lake has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 50 feet in length, making it a vital component of the local water infrastructure. While it has not undergone recent inspections, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain unclear. Nonetheless, Balsam Lake continues to support various purposes beyond flood control, highlighting its importance for environmental conservation and water regulation efforts.
As a key feature within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Balsam Lake contributes to the overall water management strategy in Minnesota. With its strategic location and design, this earth dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal agencies and local stakeholders to safeguard water resources and mitigate potential risks. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the role of structures like Balsam Lake in adapting to changing conditions and ensuring water security will be increasingly vital for sustaining the region's ecological balance.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
50 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
BUFFALO RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
103 |
Drainage Area |
1.4 |
Nid Storage |
1435 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Straight River Near Park Rapids
|
46cfs |
Buffalo River Near Hawley
|
24cfs |
Wild Rice River At Twin Valley
|
85cfs |
Otter Tail River Near Elizabeth
|
111cfs |
Crow Wing River At Nimrod
|
279cfs |
Buffalo River Near Dilworth
|
84cfs |
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.
Balsam Lake