Nest Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Nest Lake, also known as Old Mill Inn, is a quaint water resource nestled in Kandiyohi, Minnesota, owned and regulated by the local government.


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Summary

This gravity dam, completed in 1964, serves as a vital component in managing the Crow River Middle Fork's flow, with a storage capacity of 13,212 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,008 acres. Despite its poor condition assessment, the dam poses a low hazard potential and undergoes inspections every 8 years to ensure its structural integrity.

With a maximum discharge capacity of 435 cubic feet per second, Nest Lake plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management for the surrounding area. Its primary purpose, classified as "Other," highlights its multifaceted utility beyond traditional hydroelectric or irrigation functions. The dam's strategic location and modest height of 7 feet make it a valuable asset in safeguarding the local ecosystem and supporting sustainable development in the region.

Nest Lake's serene landscape and functional design underscore the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, this dam stands as a testament to proactive infrastructure investments and regulatory oversight. Despite its age and maintenance challenges, Nest Lake remains a key player in safeguarding the environmental and socio-economic interests of Kandiyohi County, epitomizing the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

34

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

CROW RIVER MIDDLE FORK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1008

Drainage Area

123

Nid Storage

13212

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.