Berscheid Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Berscheid Pond, also known as Mystery Lake, is a state-owned water resource located in Todd County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this pond serves multiple purposes, with its primary function listed as "Other." Constructed in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, the earth dam structure boasts a height of 19 feet and a length of 206 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 296 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Berscheid Pond poses a moderate risk level. The dam is inspected every 8 years, with the last assessment conducted in October 2017. The spillway type is listed as "Uncontrolled," with the pond's drainage area covering 0.5 square miles. The pond's primary purpose remains unspecified in the data, making it an intriguing site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore further.

Located near the Sauk River in Little Sauk, Berscheid Pond offers a unique opportunity for environmental enthusiasts to study the impact of its construction on the surrounding ecosystem. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1970s, this state-regulated water resource provides a valuable asset for research and conservation efforts in Todd County, Minnesota.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

206

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

SAUK RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

296

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.