Swanson Reservoir Levels

The Swanson, Holm & Hemmah Group, also known as the Ernst Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Welch, Minnesota along the Cannon River. Built in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 30 feet tall and spans 421 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 23.4 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, the Ernst Dam is currently in poor condition and last underwent inspection in April 2018. The dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, posing a moderate risk that necessitates regular inspections every 8 years. The State of Minnesota, through the MNDNR EWR agency, regulates and enforces the dam's operations to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ernst Dam serves as a prime example of the critical infrastructure that plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks. Its location in Goodhue County highlights the importance of maintaining and improving dam structures to safeguard communities and ecosystems from potential hazards. As efforts to address climate change intensify, the resilience and effectiveness of structures like the Ernst Dam will be crucial in adapting to changing weather patterns and ensuring sustainable water management practices in the future.