Pagel-Young Detention No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pagel-Young Detention No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

1, also known as Pagel Detention, is a privately owned structure located in Elba, Minnesota, along the Whitewater River S Branch. Designed by USDA NRCS and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 390 feet. Completed in 1972, its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.4 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Pagel-Young Detention No. 1 poses a moderate risk level with emergency action plans in place. Inspected every 8 years, this structure has uncontrolled spillways and outlets. It is situated in Winona County, Minnesota, under the jurisdiction of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite being a privately owned facility, it plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pagel-Young Detention No. 1 serves as a significant infrastructure for flood control in the area. Its construction and maintenance highlight the collaboration between private owners and government agencies in managing water resources and safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As a key component of the local water management system, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive measures in climate resilience and sustainable water practices.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

WHITEWATER RIVER S BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.