Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1973, serves multiple purposes and is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 9.5 feet and a length of 262 feet, the dam helps in controlling the flow of Rustad Creek and provides a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet.
Despite its important role in water management, the Forster Rice Paddies dam is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a 2009 assessment. With a low hazard potential, the dam still requires regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The local government, as the primary owner, must address the maintenance issues to prevent any potential risks associated with the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Forster Rice Paddies offer an interesting case study in the challenges of balancing water management needs with infrastructure maintenance. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential to prioritize the upkeep of dams like the Forster Rice Paddies to ensure the safety and sustainability of water systems in the region.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
262 |
Dam Height |
9.5 |
River Or Stream |
RUSTAD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
175 |
Drainage Area |
8.1 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mississippi River Near Bemidji
|
169cfs |
Red Lake River Near Red Lake
|
385cfs |
Big Fork River At Big Falls
|
169cfs |
Rapid River Near Baudette
|
91cfs |
Red Lake River At High Landing Nr Goodridge
|
323cfs |
Lost River At Oklee
|
23cfs |
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.
Forster Rice Paddies