Schliep Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Schliep Pond, also known as Elmer Schliep Dam, is a private water resource located in Appleton, Minnesota.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, completed in 1967 by USDA NRCS designers, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. With a dam height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, this low-hazard structure on the TR-Pomme de Terre river plays a crucial role in supporting local agricultural and recreational activities.

Despite being privately owned, Schliep Pond is not regulated by the state and has not been rated for its condition assessment. With a moderate risk level assigned, this uncontrolled spillway dam with a spillway width of 30 feet offers a glimpse into the unique challenges faced by small water resources in rural areas. The pond's location in Swift County, Minnesota, amidst a small drainage area of 0.21 square miles, highlights the importance of maintaining and managing such water resources effectively to ensure sustainable water supply and environmental conservation in the region.

As an Earth-type dam with a stone core and soil foundation, Schliep Pond stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and local private owners in managing water resources for multiple beneficial uses. While the dam's risk potential is deemed low, its role in providing fire protection and supporting local stock and small fish populations underscores the vital connection between water resources and climate resilience in rural communities.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-POMME DE TERRE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

16

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.