Lake Emily Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Emily Diversion, located in Pope County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated structure on the Chippewa River with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this concrete dam with a buttress core stands at a height of 7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 2.5 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 8,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2,289 acres, serving as a critical water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lake Emily Diversion plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam ensures the safety and sustainability of the water supply for residents and ecosystems in the area. The structure's primary purpose is categorized as 'Other,' reflecting its multifaceted role in water diversion and management for various purposes.

Despite its age, Lake Emily Diversion continues to function effectively, with regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan in place. With its location in a picturesque setting in Starbuck, Minnesota, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key component of the infrastructure on the Chippewa River, Lake Emily Diversion remains a critical asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

CHIPPEWA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2289

Hydraulic Height

2.5

Drainage Area

697

Nid Storage

8000

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.