Marlu Mill Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Marlu Mill Pond, also known as Marlu Lake, is a privately owned water resource located in Pope County, Minnesota.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this dam structure was completed in 1967 on the Chippewa River East Branch. With a dam height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 9 feet, Marlu Mill Pond serves various purposes, including water storage and flood control.

Covering an area of 320 acres and boasting a storage capacity of 2,184 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water availability for surrounding areas. Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, regular inspections are conducted to maintain its structural integrity. The spillway, outlet gates, and uncontrolled spillway type contribute to the efficient operation of the dam, with a moderate risk assessment indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures.

Overall, Marlu Mill Pond stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Minnesota, showcasing the collaboration between private ownership and government agencies to protect and optimize the use of water for ecological and human needs. Its strategic location and functional design make it a key player in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

CHIPPEWA RIVER E BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

320

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

59

Nid Storage

2184

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.