Shakopee Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Shakopee Lake, located in Chippewa County, Minnesota, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Constructed in 1976 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 11 feet high and stretches 700 feet long. With a storage capacity of 4,401 acre-feet and a surface area of 261 acres, Shakopee Lake plays a crucial role in managing water flow from the Shakopee Creek.

Despite its importance in flood risk management, Shakopee Lake is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The dam has undergone inspections and is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. While its risk assessment is moderate, efforts are being made to assess and improve the overall condition of the dam to better protect the surrounding area from potential hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shakopee Lake serves as a noteworthy example of the intersection between water management infrastructure and environmental conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

SHAKOPEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

261

Drainage Area

202

Nid Storage

4401

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.
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