Lanesboro Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lanesboro, a picturesque city located in Fillmore County, Minnesota, is home to a historic hydroelectric dam on the Root River South Branch.


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Summary

Built in 1868, this dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power. With a normal storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a drainage area of 297 square miles, this dam plays a vital role in the local water resource management.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Lanesboro dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections ensure its structural integrity and the safety of nearby residents. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide reliable hydroelectric power and contributes to the overall sustainability of the region's water resources. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lanesboro serves as a fascinating example of how historical infrastructure can still play a vital role in modern water management practices.

Year Completed

1868

Dam Length

193

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

ROOT RIVER SOUTH BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

297

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.