Gorman Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Gorman Lake, located in Le Sueur, Minnesota, is a Gravity dam with a height of 6 feet and a structural height of 8 feet.


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Summary

Built in 1936 by WPA-C, this dam serves as a vital water resource on the Cannon River, with a storage capacity of 4990 acre-feet and a drainage area of 69 square miles. The lake covers a surface area of 521 acres and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1970 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential, Gorman Lake plays a crucial role in water management and conservation in the region. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating its versatile use in maintaining water levels and supporting various activities along the Cannon River. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it undergoes inspections every 8 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With its historical significance and functional importance, Gorman Lake stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water resource management in Minnesota. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the role of structures like Gorman Lake in safeguarding our water resources becomes increasingly critical. The dam's location, design, and operational parameters make it a valuable asset in the region's efforts to adapt to a changing climate and ensure sustainable water management practices for future generations.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

CANNON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

521

Hydraulic Height

1.4

Drainage Area

69

Nid Storage

4990

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.