Hartley Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hartley Pond, located in Duluth, Minnesota, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction along Tischer Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1961, this gravity dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and has a structural height of 13 feet, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 20 acres and has a drainage area of 4 square miles, with a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Hartley Pond is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. While the dam has a high hazard potential, its condition is assessed as fair, with a moderate risk level. Regular inspections and emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any potential risks, with the last inspection conducted in August 2020.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Hartley Pond in managing flood risks in the region and its role in protecting the surrounding communities. The dam's strategic location and design highlight its importance in safeguarding against potential inundation events, underscoring the vital role of infrastructure in adapting to changing climate conditions. As efforts continue to enhance the resilience of such structures, Hartley Pond stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to water resource management in Minnesota.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

14.5

River Or Stream

TISCHER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.