Schirrick Reservoir Report
Nearby: Baird-Beyer Goose Lake-Pembina Wma
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Schirrick, also known as Black River, is a crucial water resource located in Red Lake, Minnesota.
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Summary
Built in 1984 by RED LAKE WD, this earth dam stands at a height of 36.7 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a maximum storage capacity of 4800 acre-feet and a normal storage of 70 acre-feet, Schirrick plays a vital role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Schirrick is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, with a very high risk assessment rating. Despite this, its condition assessment in 2009 was satisfactory, indicating that necessary maintenance and safety measures have been implemented to mitigate potential risks.
The controlled spillway and buttress core type of Schirrick contribute to its effective flood risk reduction capabilities. The dam's location on the Black River, with a drainage area of 107.7 square miles, underscores its importance in managing water flow and protecting downstream areas. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Schirrick stands as a critical infrastructure for safeguarding the local community against flooding events.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
36.7 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
107.7 |
Nid Storage |
4800 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
Schirrick