Anderson Pond-Steele Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hemelstrand Farms Dam Nelson Dam 3511
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Anderson Pond-Steele, also known as the Don Anderson Dam, is a private-owned water resource located in Steele, Minnesota.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 363 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 242 acre-feet and a normal storage of 160 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes and is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
Situated along Turtle Creek in Owatonna, Anderson Pond-Steele has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last assessment in March 2016. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a surface area of 21 acres. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, emphasizing its local regulatory oversight and maintenance.
Although the dam has not been significantly modified over the years, regular inspections are conducted every eight years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a controlled maximum discharge of 125 cubic feet per second, Anderson Pond-Steele remains a vital component of the local water management system, contributing to flood control and water conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
363 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TURTLE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
242 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Straight River Near Faribault
|
83cfs |
Cedar River Near Austin
|
110cfs |
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Minnesota River At Mankato
|
3240cfs |
Le Sueur River Near Rapidan
|
179cfs |
Cannon River At Welch
|
384cfs |
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.
Gregg Dam 1340