Minett-Kranz Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Minett-Kranz Detention, located in Pipestone, Minnesota, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1988, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 1000 feet, offering a storage capacity of 450 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is flood risk reduction, with a focus on protecting the surrounding areas from potential inundation.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlets to manage water flow during times of high discharge. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Minett-Kranz Detention undergoes regular inspections every 8 years to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the community. With a moderate risk rating and a capacity to handle up to 2400 cubic feet per second, this detention structure plays a vital role in water resource management in the Redwood River watershed.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location of Minett-Kranz Detention, which sits at the confluence of the Redwood River and the Truax Lake tributary. By effectively channeling and storing excess water during heavy rainfall events, this dam helps to prevent downstream flooding and protect the surrounding areas from water-related disasters. With a focus on sustainable water management and flood risk reduction, Minett-Kranz Detention exemplifies the importance of proactive infrastructure planning in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

REDWOOD RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

450

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.