Belle Creek R-4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Belle Creek R-4 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Goodhue County, Minnesota, specifically in the city of WHITE ROCK.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and stretches over 1082 feet, providing essential protection to the local community from potential flooding events. With a storage capacity of 1175 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.9 square miles, Belle Creek R-4 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and safeguarding the surrounding areas during periods of high discharge.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Belle Creek R-4 has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in April 2017. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in November 2020, to ensure the structure's integrity and effectiveness in flood risk mitigation. The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, allows for the controlled release of excess water, and its location on the Belle Creek-TR stream contributes to the overall water resource management in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the essential role Belle Creek R-4 plays in protecting the community and the environment from the impacts of flooding events, showcasing the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1082

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

BELLE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

4.9

Nid Storage

1175

Structural Height

56

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

56
       
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.