Rabideau Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rabideau Lake, located in Beltrami, Minnesota, is a state-regulated fish and wildlife pond with a primary purpose of providing habitat for local wildlife.


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Summary

Built in 1937, the dam that created Rabideau Lake is made of concrete and stands at a height of 7 feet, with a hydraulic height of 1.5 feet. The lake has a normal storage capacity of 1687 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 723 acres, with a drainage area of 26 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Rabideau Lake is assessed as being in fair condition as of 2009. The spillway, with a width of 16 feet, is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with the dam. The lake is inspected every 8 years, with the last inspection taking place in July 2017. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), there are no emergency action plans or inundation maps prepared for the site as of the most recent data update in March 2021.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Rabideau Lake can appreciate its role in supporting local wildlife populations and its historical significance as a Works Progress Administration Civilian Conservation Corps project. With its unique design and purpose, the lake serves as a valuable habitat and recreational area within the North Turtle River watershed in Minnesota. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts help ensure the safety and sustainability of Rabideau Lake for both wildlife and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

17

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

NORTH TURTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

723

Hydraulic Height

1.5

Drainage Area

26

Nid Storage

1687

Structural Height

7

Outlet Gates

None

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.