South Zumbro Sr-2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
South Zumbro Sr-2, located in Olmsted County, Minnesota, is a vital flood risk reduction structure along Silver Creek.
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Summary
Constructed in 1992 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and spans a length of 990 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 3,276 acre-feet to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 9.9 square miles and a maximum discharge of 129 cubic feet per second, South Zumbro Sr-2 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this structure has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. Despite the very high risk assessment, South Zumbro Sr-2 has a history of meeting regulatory guidelines and is regularly inspected to ensure its effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With a designated emergency action plan and satisfactory risk management measures in place, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure asset in safeguarding the community of Rochester and its surroundings from potential water-related disasters.
In the face of increasingly unpredictable climate patterns and rising concerns over water resource management, South Zumbro Sr-2 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and local agencies in addressing the challenges of flood risk reduction. With its controlled spillway, uncontrolled outlet gates, and buttress core design, this structure exemplifies the commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the vital role of structures like South Zumbro Sr-2 is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and building a more resilient future for all.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
990 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
98 |
Drainage Area |
9.9 |
Nid Storage |
3276 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
South Fork Zumbro River At Rochester
|
85cfs |
Root River Near Pilot Mound
|
303cfs |
Zumbro River At Kellogg
|
1550cfs |
Mississippi River At Winona
|
13400cfs |
Mississippi River At Red Wing
|
12400cfs |
Cannon River At Welch
|
384cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Chester Woods/Kisrow County Park
|
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Camp Grounds
|
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Group Site 2 (GRP2)
|
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Group Site 1 (GRP1)
|
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Carley State Park
|
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Oronococ City Park
|
South Zumbro Sr-2
Quarry Hill Park
Northern Heights Park
Silver Lake Community Playground
Northern Slopes Park
Slatterly Park