Wangen Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Finseth Pond Rain Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Wangen Pond, also known as Donald Buss Pond #2, is a private water resource located in Fillmore, Minnesota.
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Summary
Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Root River-TR. With a storage capacity of 25.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 1 acre, this pond plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Wangen Pond boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the pond's moderate risk assessment indicates a level of preparedness for potential emergencies. The dam's last inspection in June 2017 revealed a need for regular assessments every 8 years to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its strategic location and purpose-driven design, Wangen Pond stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the state of Minnesota.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Wangen Pond can appreciate its unique features, from the buttress core type to the uncontrolled spillway design. As part of the St. Paul District's portfolio of flood risk reduction structures, this private dam serves as a model for sustainable water infrastructure. With its historical completion in 1971 and ongoing state regulation, Wangen Pond stands ready to face the challenges of climate change and ensure the safety of the Whalan community.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
244 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
ROOT RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
25.4 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Root River Near Pilot Mound
|
303cfs |
Root River Near Houston
|
472cfs |
South Fork Root River Near Houston
|
209cfs |
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Upper Iowa River At Bluffton
|
264cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
13700cfs |
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.
Isinours Campsite
Riverview City Campground
Sylvan City Park
Highway 250 Campground
Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging
Fillmore County Fairgrounds Campgrounds
Wangen Pond