Northfield Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Northfield, a private hydroelectric dam located on the Cannon River in Rice County, Minnesota, has been serving as a critical water resource for the region since its completion in 1918.
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Summary
With a dam height of 17 feet and a length of 165 feet, Northfield has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a drainage area of 934 acres. The dam, primarily constructed with concrete and gravity core types, plays a significant role in managing the water flow and generating hydroelectric power in the area.
Despite being privately owned, Northfield is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Division of Ecological and Water Resources. The dam has been assessed to be in fair condition, with a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection in 2018 highlighted the need for regular maintenance and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. With a spillway type of 'Uncontrolled', Northfield poses a unique challenge in terms of water release management during high flow events.
Northfield's strategic location along the Cannon River, its historical significance, and its role in providing hydroelectric power make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, maintaining and enhancing the resilience of dams like Northfield is crucial to ensure sustainable water management and energy production for the community.
Year Completed |
1918 |
Dam Length |
165 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
CANNON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
934 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Straight River Near Faribault
|
83cfs |
Vermillion River Near Empire
|
40cfs |
Cannon River At Welch
|
384cfs |
Mississippi River Below L&D #2 At Hastings
|
8740cfs |
Mississippi River At Prescott
|
12900cfs |
Minnesota River At Fort Snelling State Park
|
6620cfs |
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.
Northfield
Gerlach Way Dakota County