Sunrise River Pool 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sunrise River Pool 3, also known as North Pool, is a state-owned structure located in Chisago, Minnesota.


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Summary

This dam on the Sunrise River was completed in 1965 and serves a primary purpose that falls under the category of "Other." With a height of 15 feet and a length of 36 feet, this gravity-type dam has a maximum storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and normal storage of 200 acre-feet. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Ecological and Water Resources division, ensuring its safety and compliance with state guidelines.

The dam at Sunrise River Pool 3 has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2014. Despite the fair condition assessment, the risk associated with the dam is considered very high, with a risk level of 1 on a scale of 1 to 5. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, and there are no updated inundation maps or risk management measures in place. However, with its controlled spillway and state oversight, the dam continues to provide essential water resource management for the area, contributing to the overall ecological health and water supply in the region.

Overall, Sunrise River Pool 3 plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Sunrise River and managing water resources in the Chisago County area. As a state-owned structure, it reflects the commitment to maintaining the safety and integrity of water infrastructure in Minnesota. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate design and function of this gravity dam, which stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

36

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

SUNRISE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Drainage Area

175

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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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.