Lake Byllesby Perimeter Embankment Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Byllesby Lamberty Pond
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Byllesby Perimeter Embankment, located in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, is a crucial structure owned by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1911 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 2000 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 24,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 1430 acres, the dam plays a significant role in managing the Cannon River's flow and providing recreational opportunities in the area.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees the inspection and regulation of Lake Byllesby Perimeter Embankment, ensuring its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential due to its location and structure, regular inspections are conducted to assess its condition and identify any required maintenance or repairs. Despite the lack of specific condition assessment data, the dam's importance in water resource management and its impact on the surrounding environment make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
As part of the larger water infrastructure system in Dakota County, Lake Byllesby Perimeter Embankment serves as a vital component in the local water supply and ecosystem. Its role in flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities highlights the interconnectedness of water resources and climate resilience. With ongoing oversight and management by regulatory agencies, this dam continues to play a critical role in sustaining the balance of water resources and climate adaptation in the region.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
Cannon River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1430 |
Drainage Area |
1160 |
Nid Storage |
24000 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cannon River At Welch
|
384cfs |
Vermillion River Near Empire
|
40cfs |
Mississippi River Below L&D #2 At Hastings
|
7340cfs |
Mississippi River At Prescott
|
12900cfs |
Mississippi River At Red Wing
|
12400cfs |
Straight River Near Faribault
|
83cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Byllesby Perimeter Embankment