Stinking Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Pond Goose Prairie Wma
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Stinking Lake, also known as Buffalo-Red Project 16, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Hawley, Minnesota.
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Summary
Built in 1992 by Houston Eng, this earth dam stands at a height of 18.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5.75 feet, with a structural height of 29 feet. The dam spans a length of 1100 feet and has a storage capacity of 8300 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1552 acre-feet.
The dam's purpose is to mitigate flood risks in the area, particularly along the Hay Creek, with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment. The structure is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Stinking Lake's risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are not specified, highlighting potential areas for improvement in ensuring the dam's continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding community and water resources.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
18.5 |
River Or Stream |
HAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
370 |
Hydraulic Height |
5.75 |
Drainage Area |
24 |
Nid Storage |
8300 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Stinking Lake