Lake Bemidji
Key Takeaway
Lake Bemidji is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1907 and is 119 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 70.7% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 60 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 4.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 201 acres |
| Drainage Area | 626 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 625 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1907 (119 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00504 |
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
Ottertail Power Co
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Bemidji?
Lake Bemidji 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 Lake Bemidji?
Lake Bemidji is owned by Ottertail Power Co (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Bemidji built?
Lake Bemidji was completed in 1907, making it 119 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 Lake Bemidji?
Lake Bemidji serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Bemidji?
Lake Bemidji has a dam height of 24 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 Lake Bemidji last inspected?
Lake Bemidji was last inspected on October 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.