Staples Wma Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Staples WMA, also known as Rice Lake, is a state-owned property located in Todd County, Minnesota.


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Summary

This wildlife management area is home to a fish and wildlife pond that serves as a vital habitat for various species. The dam on the property, completed in 1988, stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a structural height of 12 feet, with a storage capacity of 2600 acre-feet.

The Staples WMA dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition. It covers a surface area of 670 acres and has a drainage area of 6 square miles. The spillway on the dam is controlled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 200 cubic feet per second. This site is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With its strategic location along Stony Brook and its important role in supporting fish and wildlife populations, Staples WMA is a significant resource for conservation and environmental management in the region. The collaborative effort of multiple agencies, including the MNDNR, NRCS, and MNDOT, highlights the commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural ecosystems within the area. This site not only provides recreational opportunities for visitors but also contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the local water resources and climate.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

17000

Dam Height

8.5

River Or Stream

STONY BROOK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

670

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

2600

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.