Wolf Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hartley Lake Balsam Lake
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Wolf Lake, located in Itasca County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated reservoir with a primary purpose designated as "Other." The dam, completed in 1938, is a gravity type with a height of 9 feet and a hydraulic height of 4.2 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a storage capacity of 1520 acre-feet and a drainage area of 58.6 square miles, Wolf Lake serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. The reservoir has a surface area of 188 acres and a normal storage capacity of 450 acre-feet, providing essential water for various uses.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Wolf Lake has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in August 2017. The dam has a structural height of 11 feet and a length of 35 feet, contributing to its reliable performance in water management and flood control. Despite its modest size, the reservoir plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and supporting the ecosystem of the Prairie River. With its regulated status and consistent inspection and enforcement protocols, Wolf Lake stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Minnesota.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate Wolf Lake for its historical significance and ongoing importance in the region. The dam's construction during the Works Progress Administration era showcases a commitment to infrastructure development, while its continued operation reflects modern efforts to sustainably manage water resources in the face of changing climate patterns. As a key component of the local watershed, Wolf Lake serves as a model for effective dam regulation and maintenance, ensuring the resilience of water systems in Itasca County and beyond.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
35 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
PRAIRIE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
188 |
Hydraulic Height |
4.2 |
Drainage Area |
58.6 |
Nid Storage |
1520 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
633cfs |
Big Fork River At Big Falls
|
169cfs |
Vermilion River Nr Crane Lake
|
100cfs |
Little Fork River At Littlefork
|
160cfs |
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.
Wolf Lake
Buck Lake