Pleasant Valley No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pleasant Valley No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

3, also known as Noeska Detention, is a privately owned earth dam located in Winona, Minnesota. Constructed in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this structure serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Pleasant Valley CR-TR. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 336 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 150 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Pleasant Valley No. 3 has a significant hazard potential and is rated in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2015. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam is inspected every four years to ensure its integrity and safety. Situated within a moderate risk zone, this structure plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of proper water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and regulatory efforts that have gone into maintaining Pleasant Valley No. 3. With its buttress core design and state-regulated operations, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to mitigate flood risks and safeguard communities in Minnesota. As the climate continues to change, structures like Pleasant Valley No. 3 highlight the need for sustainable water management practices and adaptive strategies to address the growing challenges posed by a changing environment.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

336

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

PLEASANT VALLEY CR-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.5

Drainage Area

0.37

Nid Storage

23

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.