Sunset Lake, located in Burnsville, Minnesota, is a local government-owned earth dam completed in 1983 for flood risk reduction along the Minnesota River. This dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 820 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it has a high hazard potential, although it has been assessed as satisfactory in condition.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Sunset Lake is equipped with state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has a moderate risk assessment rating. With a drainage area of 5 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, Sunset Lake plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunset Lake serves as a significant infrastructure asset in the St. Paul District, providing essential flood protection along the Minnesota River. Its location in Dakota County, Minnesota, and its design by OSM ENG highlight the collaborative efforts involved in managing water resources and addressing potential hazards. This dam's history, design features, and risk management measures make it an important site for studying the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.