Buesgens Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buesgens Pond, located in Chaska, Minnesota, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, designed by NRCS and completed in 1978, serves a primary purpose other than flood control or water supply. With a structural height of 11 feet and a length of 195 feet, the pond has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Buesgens Pond undergoes regular inspections every 8 years, with the last assessment conducted in May 2009, deemed satisfactory. The dam's drainage area of 0.3 square miles is fed by Chaska Creek, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 40 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area is characterized by a normal storage capacity of 13 acre-feet, making it a crucial site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

With its scenic location in Carver County and its association with the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Buesgens Pond offers a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As a well-maintained structure with a history of regulatory compliance, this Earth-type dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the heart of Minnesota.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

195

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CHASKA CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.