Merten's Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dike No. 2 Dike No. 1
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Merten's is a state-regulated dam located in North Redwood, Minnesota, along the Minnesota River-TR.
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Summary
Completed in 1979, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 7 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. With a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet, this dam covers a drainage area of 0.1 square miles and has a low hazard potential, as assessed in 2017. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with a satisfactory condition assessment reported in 2017.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Merten's plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities. Its strategic location along the Minnesota River-TR makes it a vital piece of infrastructure in the area. With a structured inspection frequency of 8 years and a commitment to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols, Merten's demonstrates a dedication to maintaining its functionality and safeguarding its surrounding environment.
As a significant flood risk reduction asset in Redwood County, Merten's provides valuable protection to the local area and contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in Minnesota. Its satisfactory condition assessment and adherence to state regulations highlight its importance in ensuring the resilience of the region against potential flood events. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the critical role that Merten's plays in safeguarding the community and the environment from the impacts of water-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
MINNESOTA RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
420 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Redwood River Near Redwood Falls
|
53cfs |
Minnesota River At Morton
|
1750cfs |
Yellow Medicine River Near Granite Falls
|
133cfs |
Minnesota River At Montevideo
|
1810cfs |
Redwood River Near Marshall
|
0cfs |
Minnesota River At New Ulm
|
1130cfs |
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.
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Merten's