Big Stone Lake
Key Takeaway
Big Stone Lake is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 50.4% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 6,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 205.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12,094 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,182 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00169 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MNDNR;UMRWS
State Government
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High Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Stone Lake?
Big Stone Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Stone Lake?
Big Stone Lake is owned by MNDNR;UMRWS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Stone Lake built?
Big Stone Lake was completed in 1937, making it 89 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Stone Lake?
Big Stone Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Stone Lake?
Big Stone Lake has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Big Stone Lake last inspected?
Big Stone Lake was last inspected on July 20, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.