Silver Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Silver Lake, located in Hennepin County, Minnesota, is a stunning water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at 11 feet tall and with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, is regulated and inspected by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to ensure its safety and proper functioning. The dam is situated on Purgatory Creek-TR, adding to the picturesque surroundings of this 32-acre lake.

Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, Silver Lake's condition assessment in 2012 revealed a fair status, prompting regular inspections every 8 years. The lake's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently under review, highlighting the commitment to maintaining its safety and integrity for visitors and the surrounding environment. With its tranquil waters and recreational opportunities, Silver Lake offers a haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate nature's beauty while being mindful of sustainable conservation efforts.

Dam Height

3

River Or Stream

PURGATORY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.