Carda Impoundment Reservoir Report
Nearby: Knife Lake Forshier Pool
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Carda Impoundment, located in Mora, Minnesota, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 555 feet, serves as a crucial water resource structure on the Knife River-TR. With a storage capacity of 56.6 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and managing flood risks in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Carda Impoundment is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 75 cubic feet per second. Its primary purpose, classified as "Other," underscores its significance in the broader water management system of Kanabec County.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Carda Impoundment offers a compelling case study in dam infrastructure and risk management. Its moderate risk assessment, along with the lack of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness efforts. As a key component of the St. Paul District's water infrastructure, the dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering, policy, and environmental stewardship in sustaining water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
KNIFE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
56.6 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Snake River Near Pine City
|
127cfs |
Kettle River Below Sandstone
|
170cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
Rum River Near St. Francis
|
209cfs |
Elk River Near Big Lake
|
274cfs |
Mississippi River At Brainerd
|
972cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Carda Impoundment