Chippewa River Fish Barrier Reservoir Report
Nearby: Long Lake Jennie Lake Flowage
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Chippewa River Fish Barrier is a critical structure located in Hoffman, Minnesota, designed by the USDA NRCS to prevent fish migration and protect the local fish and wildlife pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands 17 feet tall and spans 200 feet across the Chippewa River, with a storage capacity of 189 acre-feet. Funded, designed, and constructed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this barrier serves as a crucial element in managing the local ecosystem and recreational activities.
Situated in Douglas County, Minnesota, the Chippewa River Fish Barrier plays a vital role in regulating water flow and promoting biodiversity in the region. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the barrier is subject to moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3. Regular inspections by the NRCS ensure that the structure is maintained and functioning effectively to fulfill its primary purpose of protecting the fish and wildlife pond while offering recreational opportunities for the community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Chippewa River Fish Barrier represents a harmonious blend of conservation efforts and recreational amenities. As a key component in the management of the Chippewa River ecosystem, this structure exemplifies the importance of sustainable practices in maintaining a balanced environment for both wildlife and human activities. With its strategic location and design, the barrier stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of state and federal agencies in safeguarding natural resources for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
CHIPPEWA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
168 |
Nid Storage |
189 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Chippewa Co Park
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Chippewa County Park Campground
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Prairie Cove Campground
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Tipsinah Mounds Park Campground
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Tipsinah Mounds City Park
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Chippewa River Fish Barrier