Located in Fillmore County, Minnesota, the Leslie Helickson Detention structure was completed in 1983 by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risk along the Duschee Creek-TR. This private-owned earth dam stands at 30 feet tall with a length of 540 feet, providing flood risk reduction and storing a normal capacity of 35 acre-feet of water. The dam's low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment make it a crucial asset in the region's water resource management efforts.

Managed by the MNDNR EWR and designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Leslie Helickson Detention plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates ensure efficient water discharge during peak flow periods, with a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam's regular inspections and enforcement by state regulatory agencies guarantee its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.

With a drainage area of one square mile and a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet, Leslie Helickson Detention is a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor. Its location in Lanesboro, Minnesota, highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the safety and resilience of communities against the impacts of climate change. As a key component in the region's flood risk reduction strategy, this earth dam serves as a model for integrated water resource management efforts in addressing the challenges posed by a changing climate.