Chippewa Diversion Dam, also known as Watson Sag and Chippewa River Channel, is a federal-owned structure located in Minnesota.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1951, this earth dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional purposes including fish and wildlife pond creation, recreation, and water supply. The dam stands at 20 feet high and stretches 12,000 feet in length, with a maximum discharge capacity of 6,000 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as a low hazard dam, Chippewa Diversion Dam is considered a moderate-risk structure by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Concerns for overtopping near abutments and wing walls, as well as intermittent scour downstream, prompted this risk assessment. However, the potential consequences of a breach are minimal, with downstream impacts limited to a few inches in water surface profiles during large floods. To manage and mitigate these risks, USACE continuously monitors and maintains the dam to ensure its proper functioning and safety for surrounding communities.
USACE's risk management measures for Chippewa Diversion Dam include regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs as needed to reduce potential hazards to the public. By prioritizing activities that address the identified risks, USACE aims to maintain the dam's integrity and safeguard against potential issues. With a commitment to proactive risk management, Chippewa Diversion Dam continues to play a crucial role in flood risk reduction and water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
12000 |
Dam Height |
5 |
River Or Stream |
CHANNEL BUILT OFF CHIPPEWA RIV |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
81.3 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 1, Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Minnesota River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
1410cfs |
Chippewa River Near Watson
|
394cfs |
Lac Qui Parle River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
536cfs |
Chippewa River Near Milan
|
624cfs |
Minnesota River At Montevideo
|
1810cfs |
Pomme De Terre River At Appleton
|
237cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lac qui Parle State Park
|
||
Lagoon Park Campground
|
||
Dawson City Park. Campground
|
||
Boyd City Park
|