Little Hill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Hill Pond, located in Hill City, Minnesota, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1978, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8 feet and serves as a fish and wildlife pond with a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 40 acres and has a drainage area of 5.4 square miles, with a controlled spillway for managing water discharge.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Little Hill Pond poses a very high risk due to its location near the Little Hill River. The dam undergoes inspections every 8 years, with the most recent assessment conducted in August 2019. The primary purpose of the dam is to support fish and wildlife habitats, making it an essential resource for conservation efforts in the area. With its picturesque setting and importance for biodiversity, Little Hill Pond is a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Aitkin County.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

LITTLE HILL RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

3

Drainage Area

5.4

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.