Rose Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rose Lake, located in Otter Tail County, Minnesota, is a picturesque reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1937 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA-C), this dam features a buttress core type and stands at a height of 12 feet, with a length of 40 feet. The lake has a maximum storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1,177 acres, making it a popular destination for water enthusiasts.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Rose Lake provides a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. The dam is regulated by the state of Minnesota and is situated along the Otter Tail River, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Despite being last inspected in 1991, the risk assessment for Rose Lake is very high, indicating the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of the structure and surrounding area.

Overall, Rose Lake is a valuable water resource in Minnesota, offering both recreational opportunities and essential water storage capacity. Its historical significance and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to experience the intersection of human engineering and environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

40

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

OTTER TAIL RIVER - TR

Surface Area

1177

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

10000

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.