Minnesota Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Minnesota Lake is a gravity dam located in Sterling Center, Faribault County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this local government-owned structure serves various purposes, including flood control and water storage. With a maximum storage capacity of 11,505 acre-feet and a normal storage of 3,768 acre-feet, the dam helps manage water levels in the Maple River-TR watershed.

The dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 40 feet, with a surface area of 1,884 acres. It is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level (3) and has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared as of the latest data update in 2016.

Overall, Minnesota Lake is a vital water resource management infrastructure in the region, providing critical flood protection and water storage capabilities. Its presence contributes to the sustainable management of water resources in Faribault County and underscores the importance of effective dam maintenance and regulation in ensuring public safety and environmental resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

40

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

MAPLE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1884

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

11505

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.