Coffee Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Moose Lake State Park Langhorst Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Coffee Lake in Carlton, Minnesota is a concrete gravity dam completed in 1939 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Managed by the local government, this dam has a height of 10 feet and a storage capacity of 1500 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 67 acres and has a drainage area of 11.6 square miles, with the Moose River serving as its primary water source.
The dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in July 2013. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate. The structure has a spillway type of uncontrolled and is located in the Detroit District under the jurisdiction of MNDNR EWR. With its serene setting and recreational opportunities, Coffee Lake is a valuable water resource for the community of Sturgeon Lake.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance of the dam, designed by WPA-BC, and its role in providing recreational activities for the local residents. As a regulated structure in Minnesota, Coffee Lake serves as a vital part of the region's water management system, showcasing the intersection of human engineering and natural resources. Its location along the Moose River adds to its ecological importance, making it a focal point for conservation efforts and sustainable water use in the area.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
4 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
MOOSE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
67 |
Drainage Area |
11.6 |
Nid Storage |
1500 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
St. Louis River At Scanlon
|
517cfs |
St. Croix River Near Danbury
|
1650cfs |
Nemadji River Near South Superior
|
93cfs |
Snake River Near Pine City
|
127cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
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.
Coffee Lake