Located in Swift County, Minnesota, the Berthold Koosmann pond, also known as Berthold Koosman Pond, was completed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS. This private earth dam structure has a height of 25 feet and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, livestock watering, and small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.32 square miles, the pond has a low hazard potential and is rated as moderate risk level.

Situated in the city of Appleton along the TR-Pomme de Terre river, the Berthold Koosmann pond spans 200 feet in length and is designed with stone core types on a soil foundation. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway of the pond has a width of 18 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 30 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures are yet to be evaluated, suggesting a need for further assessment and planning to ensure the pond's safety and efficiency.

With no state regulation or inspection in place for the dam, the Berthold Koosmann pond stands as a testament to private ownership and stewardship in water resource management. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates delve into the intricacies of this structure, the potential for enhancing its risk management strategies and emergency preparedness becomes increasingly apparent. As a valuable asset for fire protection and irrigation purposes, this pond serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges.