Elephant Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elephant Creek, also known as the Patricia Zakovec Wetland, is a federal Fish and Wildlife Pond located in Crane Lake, Minnesota.


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Summary

Constructed in 1991 by the Lacroix Ranger District of the Forest Service, this concrete dam structure stands at 7 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. With a surface area of 60 acres and a drainage area of 11 square miles, Elephant Creek serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife and a popular recreational spot for visitors.

The dam's primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife in the area, and it also provides opportunities for recreation. Elephant Creek's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 52 feet, and the dam has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The structure has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it undergoes inspections every 10 years to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its modest size, Elephant Creek plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the St. Louis County of Minnesota.

Managed by the Forest Service, Elephant Creek exemplifies the intersection of conservation and community engagement in water resource management. As climate change continues to impact the region, the importance of sustainable water infrastructure like Elephant Creek will only grow, making it a valuable asset for both wildlife and local residents. With its tranquil waters and diverse ecosystem, Elephant Creek stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve our natural resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

135

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

ELEPHANT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

11

Nid Storage

360

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.