Fish Lake Fish Barrier Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fish Lake Outlet Christiania Twp 5
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Fish Lake Fish Barrier, located in Cottonwood, Minnesota, is a state-owned structure designed to prevent fish migration in the Watonwan River South Fork.
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Summary
It serves as a crucial tool for managing fish and wildlife populations in the area, with a primary purpose of functioning as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The barrier is constructed of concrete, with a height of 7 feet and a storage capacity of 862 acre-feet, providing essential habitat for aquatic species.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Fish Lake Fish Barrier is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its proper functioning and environmental impact. Despite its low hazard potential, the structure has not been rated for condition assessment, and the last inspection took place in April 2008. With a surface area of 300 acres and a drainage area of 2.3 square miles, the barrier plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and protecting the local aquatic ecosystem.
Fish Lake Fish Barrier is a key component of water resource management in the region, with a focus on promoting biodiversity and preserving natural habitats. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like this help in mitigating the effects and sustaining the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems. With ongoing state oversight and maintenance, the barrier remains a critical asset in safeguarding the health and vitality of the Watonwan River South Fork and its surrounding environment.
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
WATONWAN RIVER SOUTH FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
300 |
Hydraulic Height |
6.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.3 |
Nid Storage |
862 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
Fish Lake Fish Barrier