Heron Lake Outlet in Windom, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam completed in 1937 with a primary purpose designated as "Other." This gravity dam, standing at a height of 10 feet and a length of 133 feet, serves the Heron Lake Outlet river and has a normal storage capacity of 72,571 acre-feet.
Wind
Humidity
The dam's hazard potential is rated as low, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2010.
Located in Jackson County, Minnesota, the Heron Lake Outlet dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 4,889 cubic feet per second. The dam's hydraulic height is recorded at 3.2 feet, serving a drainage area of 448 square miles. Despite its age, the dam remains structurally sound and is inspected regularly by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to ensure its continued safe operation.
Overall, Heron Lake Outlet dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure within the Rock Island District, providing flood control, water storage, and regulation services for the surrounding community. With its moderate risk assessment and history of satisfactory performance, this dam exemplifies the importance of effective water resource management in maintaining the resilience of local ecosystems and communities in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
133 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
HERON LAKE OUTLET |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
2845 |
Hydraulic Height |
3.2 |
Drainage Area |
448 |
Nid Storage |
100000 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Spark's Park
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Talcot County Park Campground
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Fury’s Island County Park
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Maka-Oicu County Park
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Kilen Woods State Park
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