Park Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Park Lake, located in Mahtowa, Minnesota, is a locally-owned earth dam structure built in 1963 for purposes other than flood control.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 7 feet and a storage capacity of 4800 acre-feet, regulates Park Lake Creek and covers a surface area of 376 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated as poor, indicating the need for maintenance and repairs to ensure its structural integrity.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Park Lake Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement. The dam's primary source agency is the state of Minnesota, and it falls under the jurisdiction of Carlton County. The dam's location in S29 T048N R18W boasts scenic views and recreational opportunities, making it a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Park Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding environment. With its designated purpose and historical significance, this earth dam structure serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human activity and natural ecosystems in the context of water management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

40

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

PARK LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

376

Hydraulic Height

2

Drainage Area

2.4

Nid Storage

4800

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.