Lake John, also known as Fales-Van Hyfte or Yellow Medicine No. 7, is a picturesque earth dam located in Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota. Built in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along the Mud Creek-TR stream. Standing at a height of 43 feet and with a length of 1000 feet, Lake John has a storage capacity of 557 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Lake John plays a crucial role in mitigating potential hazards with a significant hazard potential rating. Despite this, the dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2012. The surrounding area enjoys a surface area of 20 acres and a normal storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, providing both flood control and recreational opportunities for the community.

With its buttress core design and uncontrolled spillway, Lake John is a symbol of effective water resource management in Minnesota. As climate change continues to impact the region, structures like Lake John play a critical role in safeguarding against floods and preserving water resources for future generations. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake John stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in the face of environmental challenges.