Morph Wma Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morph Wma is a state-regulated fish and wildlife pond located in BENA, Minnesota, within Itasca County.


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Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR), this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 732 acre-feet. With a surface area of 183 acres and a drainage area of 6.8 square miles, the pond serves as a vital habitat for various wildlife species in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Morph Wma has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in January 2018. The dam is designed as a buttress-type structure, serving its primary purpose of providing a safe environment for fish and wildlife. The surrounding area boasts an abundance of natural beauty, with the Island Lake Creek-TR flowing nearby, offering a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

With its proximity to the St. Paul District and the guidance of local representative Pete Stauber, Morph Wma stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Minnesota. As an integral part of the state's environmental conservation efforts, this dam not only serves as a critical habitat for wildlife but also contributes to the overall health and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

ISLAND LAKE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

183

Drainage Area

6.8

Nid Storage

732

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.