Lake Clayton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Clayton, located in Pine County, Minnesota, is a picturesque reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1940 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this dam stands at 16 feet tall and has a structural height of 19 feet, providing a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. With a surface area of 17 acres and a drainage area of 28.7 square miles, Lake Clayton is a popular spot for water enthusiasts looking to enjoy the tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lake Clayton is regulated by state agencies to ensure its safety and integrity. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements. The last inspection conducted in June 2019 highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring and management to address any safety concerns and maintain the recreational value of the lake for visitors.

With a spillway width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 865 cubic feet per second, Lake Clayton offers a unique opportunity for outdoor recreation while also serving as a vital water resource in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the preservation and management of lakes like Clayton become increasingly important to ensure sustainable use for future generations.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

HAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

28.7

Nid Storage

154

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.