East Willow Creek Da-1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

East Willow Creek Da-1, located in Preston, Minnesota, is a local government-owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks along the Willow Creek-TR river.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 218 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

The primary purpose of East Willow Creek Da-1 is flood risk reduction, with a focus on controlling water levels and minimizing potential damages during periods of heavy rainfall. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, emphasizing the importance of proper management to prevent overflow and maintain stability. With a drainage area of 1.2 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting surrounding communities from the impacts of flooding. Its moderate risk assessment underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard against potential threats.

In the event of an emergency, East Willow Creek Da-1 is equipped with uncontrolled outlet gates, although details regarding emergency action plans and inundation maps are currently unavailable. Despite its age, this dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively, serving as a vital infrastructure asset for flood control in Fillmore County, Minnesota. With a dedicated regulatory agency and a history of satisfactory inspections, East Willow Creek Da-1 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water resource management and climate resilience in mitigating natural disasters.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

218

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.