North Ottawa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

North Ottawa is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Tintah, Minnesota, within Grant County.


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Summary

Completed in 2008, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 23,800 acre-feet, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Owned and regulated by the local government, this dam is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and functionality in times of need.

Situated on the Judicial Ditch 2 river/stream, North Ottawa plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region. With a hazard potential classified as significant, the dam's condition has been assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in August 2018. The primary purpose of North Ottawa is flood risk reduction, reflecting its essential role in safeguarding the community and infrastructure against potential water-related disasters.

With a notable capacity for water storage and a strategic location within the Omaha District, North Ottawa stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, structures like North Ottawa play a critical role in protecting communities and promoting sustainable development practices in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

2008

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

JUDICIAL DITCH 2

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

37

Nid Storage

23800

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.