Summary
Managed by the local government, this structure stands at 8 feet tall and spans 35 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 2975 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is rated as having a low hazard potential and fair condition, last assessed in 2009.
The Sleepy Eye Control dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. While primarily designed for recreation, this structure also serves as a vital water resource within the region, with a drainage area of 1.5 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet. The dam's location at S30 T110N R32W makes it a key feature in the local landscape and a potential point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
With its historical significance as a Works Progress Administration project and ongoing state oversight, Sleepy Eye Control remains a symbol of both past engineering achievements and present-day water management efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like this dam play a crucial role in maintaining water supply, flood control, and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. Whether for historical appreciation or environmental advocacy, Sleepy Eye Control offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of water resources and climate resilience in Minnesota.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
35 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
COUNTY DITCH 5 |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
227 |
Hydraulic Height |
1 |
Drainage Area |
1.5 |
Nid Storage |
2975 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Minnesota River At New Ulm
|
1130cfs |
Cottonwood River Near New Ulm
|
215cfs |
Little Cottonwood River Near Courtland
|
33cfs |
Minnesota River At Morton
|
1750cfs |
Redwood River Near Redwood Falls
|
53cfs |
Watonwan River Near Garden City
|
82cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Sleepy Eye Campground
|
||
Sportsman Park - Sleepy Eye
|
||
Kettner's Landing - DNR
|
||
Fort Ridgely State Park
|
||
Rustic Campground
|
||
Creekside Campground
|
Sleepy Eye Control