Frigaard-Nelson Wetland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Frigaard-Nelson Wetland in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, is a private fish and wildlife pond designed by Ducks Unlimited and completed in 2000.


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Summary

This Earth dam structure is 10 feet high and 160 feet long, with a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet and a surface area of 50 acres. Situated on the Otter Tail River, this wetland serves as a habitat for various wildlife species and plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Frigaard-Nelson Wetland is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and effectiveness in water resource management. The dam has a controlled spillway type with a width of 12 feet and a low hazard potential. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the wetland is categorized as having a very high risk due to its strategic location and importance in the region's water supply and biodiversity.

Located in Otter Tail County, this wetland serves as a vital conservation area and recreational spot for residents and visitors alike. With its scenic views, diverse wildlife, and sustainable water management practices, the Frigaard-Nelson Wetland stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting our natural resources in the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

OTTER TAIL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

330

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.