South Zumbro Wr-4 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Olmsted County, Minnesota, specifically in Rochester. Built in 1988 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Willow Creek-TR. With a height of 46 feet and a length of 1100 feet, South Zumbro Wr-4 has a storage capacity of 968 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 40 acres, draining an area of 4.3 square miles.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment as of June 2017 was deemed satisfactory. The dam's emergency action plan was last updated in April 2015, and it meets guidelines for risk management, with a very high risk assessment rating of (1).

South Zumbro Wr-4 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events, with controlled spillways and uncontrolled outlet gates in place. The dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the collaborative efforts to manage water resources effectively and mitigate climate-related risks in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the maintenance and management of structures like South Zumbro Wr-4 is essential for ensuring the resilience of our communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.