Hanson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Carlton County, Minnesota, the Hanson dam, also known as Red Clay Erosion Control, was constructed in 1979 by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Skunk Creek.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 830 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 573 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2014, the dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hanson serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood control in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates help regulate water discharge, with a maximum flow capacity of 536 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been modified in recent years and is deemed to meet emergency action plan guidelines, ensuring preparedness for potential inundation events.

Representing a vital component of water resource management in the area, Hanson stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction efforts. With its strategic location and design, the dam plays a key role in safeguarding downstream communities from the impacts of flooding, highlighting the importance of proactive infrastructure development in mitigating climate-related risks.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

830

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

SKUNK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

4.3

Nid Storage

573

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.