Lac Qui Parle Dam
Key Takeaway
Lac Qui Parle Dam is classified as high hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 55.8% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 4,327 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 122.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 29.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8,500 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6,100 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 35,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00580 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - St. Paul District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lac Qui Parle Dam?
Lac Qui Parle Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lac Qui Parle Dam?
Lac Qui Parle Dam is owned by USACE - St. Paul District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lac Qui Parle Dam built?
Lac Qui Parle Dam was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Lac Qui Parle Dam?
Lac Qui Parle Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lac Qui Parle Dam?
Lac Qui Parle Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Lac Qui Parle Dam last inspected?
Lac Qui Parle Dam was last inspected on June 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.