Gravel Pit Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Gravel Pit, located in Montevideo, Minnesota, is a key structure managed by the local government for flood risk reduction along County Ditch 69A.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1994, stands at a height of 22 feet and a length of 200 feet, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Chippewa County.
With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2018, Gravel Pit is a crucial infrastructure for managing water resources in the region. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, 15 feet in width, allows for the controlled release of excess water during peak flow events to prevent overflow and potential damage downstream. The structure is regularly inspected and maintained to uphold its effectiveness in flood risk reduction, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 indicating a proactive approach to risk management.
As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, structures like Gravel Pit play a vital role in safeguarding communities against flooding and mitigating potential risks. The collaborative efforts of local government agencies and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources ensure the proper regulation, inspection, and enforcement of dam safety protocols, highlighting the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of evolving climatic challenges.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
COUNTY DITCH 69A |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Minnesota River At Montevideo
|
1810cfs |
Chippewa River Near Watson
|
423cfs |
Minnesota River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
1240cfs |
Lac Qui Parle River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
536cfs |
Chippewa River Near Milan
|
624cfs |
Yellow Medicine River Near Granite Falls
|
133cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lagoon Park Campground
|
||
Granite Falls Memorial Park Campground
|
||
Lion's RV Park
|
||
Maynard Lions Park
|
||
Boyd City Park
|
Gravel Pit