Geneva Lake, located in Freeborn County, Minnesota, is a man-made reservoir on Turtle Creek with a gravity dam completed in 1953.
Wind
Humidity
The dam has a height of 10 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, creating a storage capacity of 12,220 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 6,580 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 1,944 acres and has a drainage area of 25 square miles.
Managed by the local government, Geneva Lake is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has a spillway width of 6 feet and a low hazard potential, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in 2013. Despite moderate risk assessment, the lake serves as a recreational spot and plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts would be intrigued by Geneva Lake's role in flood control, water supply, and recreational activities in the area. With its historical significance as a Works Progress Administration project, the lake continues to provide valuable services to the community while maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental sustainability. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and managing reservoirs like Geneva Lake become increasingly important for ensuring resilience and adaptation to future challenges.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
27 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TURTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
1944 |
Drainage Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
12220 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Cedar River Near Austin
|
110cfs |
Straight River Near Faribault
|
83cfs |
Winnebago River At Mason City
|
166cfs |
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Le Sueur River Near Rapidan
|
179cfs |
Minnesota River At Mankato
|
3240cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Gopher Stop Campground
|
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Backpack #5
|
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Backpack #4
|
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Backpack #3
|
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Backpack #2
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Myre - Big Island State Park
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