Olmsted County Rd 10 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Elmira-1 Craven Detention
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Olmsted County Rd 10, located in Whalan, Minnesota, is a crucial structure regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Enforcement.
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Summary
Built in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 440 feet across Lynch Creek. With a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet, this dam serves as a vital resource for flood control and water management in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Olmsted County Rd 10 poses a very high risk due to its location and the potential impact of a failure. The dam's controlled spillway and uncontrolled outlet gates help mitigate this risk, but regular inspections every 8 years ensure its continued safety. Emergency action plans are in place, although further updates may be needed to meet current guidelines and ensure effective risk management measures.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to appreciate the importance of structures like Olmsted County Rd 10 in maintaining the delicate balance of water management and flood control in the region. By understanding the regulatory agencies involved, the dam's design and purpose, and its risk assessment, we can better appreciate and advocate for the continued maintenance and safety of this critical infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
LYNCH CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Root River Near Pilot Mound
|
303cfs |
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
17900cfs |
Zumbro River At Kellogg
|
1550cfs |
Root River Near Houston
|
1260cfs |
South Fork Root River Near Houston
|
353cfs |
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.
Olmsted County Rd 10