Handeen-Jahn Group Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Handeen-Jahn Group Pond, located in Chippewa County, Minnesota, serves as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Minnesota River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this privately owned Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 31 feet and spans 330 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, the pond covers a surface area of 55 acres and effectively manages water flow from a drainage area of 1 square mile.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Handeen-Jahn Group Pond is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose moderate risks, as indicated by a risk assessment rating of 3. Emergency action plans and inundation maps are yet to be prepared, suggesting a need for enhanced risk management measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection in the event of a flood event.
In collaboration with federal and state agencies, the Natural Resources Conservation Service oversees the ongoing operation and maintenance of Handeen-Jahn Group Pond. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, this critical water resource infrastructure plays a crucial role in safeguarding communities downstream from potential flooding. With a commitment to proactive risk mitigation strategies, the pond continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood risk reduction while remaining an essential asset for water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
MINNESOTA RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Minnesota River At Montevideo
|
1810cfs |
Chippewa River Near Watson
|
423cfs |
Minnesota River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
1240cfs |
Lac Qui Parle River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
536cfs |
Chippewa River Near Milan
|
624cfs |
Pomme De Terre River At Appleton
|
237cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lagoon Park Campground
|
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Lac qui Parle State Park
|
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Boyd City Park
|
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Lion's RV Park
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Handeen-Jahn Group Pond