Knott Detention, also known as the Arlen Knott Detention Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Sanborn, Minnesota. Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and stretches 570 feet in length along the Cottonwood River. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 261 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 686 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Knott Detention is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections every eight years to monitor its performance. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 2 square miles, benefits from the dam's flood protection measures, with a normal storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a surface area of 6 acres.

Overall, Knott Detention plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the Redwood County region of Minnesota. With its efficient design and operational protocols, this structure provides a valuable resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable flood management practices.