Cottonwood Lake, located in Blue Earth, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment. Built in 1938 by Ducks Unlimited and part of an old WPA dam, this gravity dam stands at 7 feet tall and stretches 625 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 533 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.7 square miles, Cottonwood Lake serves as a vital water resource in the area.

The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," and it is designed with a controlled spillway with a width of 10 feet. The maximum discharge capacity of the dam reaches 359 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective flood control measures for the surrounding area. Despite its age, Cottonwood Lake remains a critical infrastructure for managing water resources and climate-related risks in the region.

With a very high risk assessment rating of 1, Cottonwood Lake is closely monitored with regular inspections every 8 years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Although the dam poses a low hazard potential, the risk management measures in place help mitigate any potential threats. As an essential component of the local water infrastructure, Cottonwood Lake plays a significant role in safeguarding the community against floods and other water-related emergencies.