Little Falls
Key Takeaway
Little Falls is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 82.5% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 576 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11,450 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 54,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00600 |
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
Allete, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Little Falls?
Little Falls 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 Little Falls?
Little Falls is owned by Allete, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Little Falls built?
Little Falls was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Little Falls?
Little Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Little Falls?
Little Falls has a dam height of 30 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 Little Falls last inspected?
Little Falls was last inspected on September 19, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.