Redwood Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Redwood Falls, located in Redwood, Minnesota, is a gravity-type dam on the Redwood River with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1902 by designer BURMEISTER, this dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 250 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 35,000 cubic feet per second, Redwood Falls plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

The dam is regulated and inspected by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR), with a satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2017. It has a high hazard potential and is considered to be at very high risk, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management measures. Despite its age, Redwood Falls continues to provide valuable hydroelectric power and plays a significant role in the local water infrastructure, showcasing the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

With its controlled spillway and substantial drainage area of 677 square miles, Redwood Falls serves as a vital component of the water management system in the area. The dam's historical significance, combined with its continued operational importance, makes it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, hydroelectric power generation, and environmental sustainability in the Redwood area.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

REDWOOD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

100

Drainage Area

677

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.