Lawstuen Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lawstuen Pond, also known as Donald Laustuen, is a state-owned dam located in Fillmore County, Minnesota.
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Summary
Built in 1961 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Root River. Standing at 26 feet in height with a length of 258 feet, Lawstuen Pond has a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 200 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 indicated poor structural integrity, prompting the need for regular inspections to ensure public safety.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lawstuen Pond is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state regulatory agency. Although the dam's emergency action plan is not specified, its moderate risk level suggests a need for improved risk management measures. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Lawstuen Pond plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam's location in Whalan, Minnesota, highlights its importance in protecting downstream communities from potential water surges and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the area.
As a key structure within the St. Paul District of the USACE, Lawstuen Pond contributes to the overall flood control efforts in the region. With Congressman Jim Hagedorn representing the area, there is a clear connection between local government and the management of water resources. Despite its poor condition assessment in 2016, Lawstuen Pond remains vital for flood risk reduction and underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its long-term effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
258 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
ROOT RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
28 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
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 |
Upper Iowa River At Bluffton
|
264cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
13700cfs |
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
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.
Riverview City Campground
Sylvan City Park
Highway 250 Campground
Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging
Isinours Campsite
Fillmore County Fairgrounds Campgrounds
Lawstuen Pond