Elk Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elk Lake in Sherburne County, Minnesota, is a state-regulated fish and wildlife pond with a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this picturesque lake covers 353 acres and has a maximum storage capacity of 3,600 acre-feet. The dam, of buttress core type, stands at a height of 4.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 2 feet, providing essential habitat for a variety of wildlife in the region.

Situated along Battle Brook in Big Lake, Elk Lake serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 42 square miles. Despite its relatively modest size, the lake plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and regular inspections, Elk Lake ensures the safety and sustainability of its operations while contributing to the conservation efforts of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

As a designated fish and wildlife pond, Elk Lake embodies the harmonious coexistence of human activities and nature conservation. Its strategic location and purposeful design not only enhance the beauty of the landscape but also serve as a model for sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elk Lake stands as a shining example of responsible stewardship and environmental protection in the heart of Minnesota's Sherburne County.

Dam Length

44

Dam Height

4.5

River Or Stream

BATTLE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

353

Hydraulic Height

2

Drainage Area

42

Nid Storage

3600

Structural Height

8.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.