Turtle Lake Outlet

The Turtle Lake Project is located in Section 7 and 8 Cormorant Township, Becker County and Section 13 Parke Township, Clay County.

 

In the spring of 1999, landowners around Turtle Lake expressed concern about high water levels on the lake. Lake levels rose to levels never recorded, causing damage to roads, septic systems, and buildings. BRRWD declared the Turtle Lake project an emergency due to severe property damage. A hearing was held in July 1999 to establish the project and the Turtle Lake outlet was operational in September 1999.

 

The project includes outlets for Turtle Lake and Long Lake, both landlocked basins. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources established allowable drawdown elevations for Turtle Lake and Long Lake through their permit for the project. In general, the operation of the Long Lake siphon can be initiated when the elevation of Long Lake is above the drawdown elevation. The Turtle Lake siphon is only able to be operated seasonally, where siphon operation is restricted during times of the year when zebra mussels can be transported or introduced into another water body by the Turtle Lake siphon.

 

The property where the siphons are located is private property. Please respect the rights of these landowners and don’t trespass. If you have any questions or concerns about the siphon system, please direct them to the BRRWD.