Schoper-Bush Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Schoper-Bush, located in Cottonwood County, Minnesota, is a flood risk reduction dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1989.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed for flood protection, is an Earth dam with a height of 45 feet and a length of 1600 feet. With a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3 square miles, Schoper-Bush plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Schoper-Bush has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a fair condition assessment. The dam's inspection frequency is every 4 years, with the last inspection conducted in May 2019. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

With its strategic location on Dry Creek-TR in Sanborn, Schoper-Bush stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between government agencies and stakeholders in safeguarding communities from potential flood events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of infrastructure like Schoper-Bush is vital in building resilience to the impacts of climate change and ensuring the sustainable management of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.