Giese Wetland Reservoir Report
Nearby: Giese Wetland Saddle Henrichs Wetland
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Giese Wetland, located in Donnelly, Minnesota, is a private fish and wildlife pond with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment.
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Summary
Built in 1997 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam spans 200 feet in length and has a maximum storage capacity of 270 acre-feet. The wetland covers an area of 37 acres and serves as a habitat for various aquatic species.
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Giese Wetland is regulated and inspected by the state to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The wetland is situated in the Fivemile Creek watershed and plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a controlled spillway and no outlet gates, the wetland is designed to maintain a normal storage level of 102.7 acre-feet and can handle a maximum discharge of 149 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Giese Wetland poses a very high risk due to its location and size. The dam has been regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in August 2019. With a focus on fish and wildlife conservation, this wetland serves as a valuable resource for both the local ecosystem and water enthusiasts interested in the intersection of wetland management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
11.5 |
River Or Stream |
FIVEMILE CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
37 |
Drainage Area |
0.46 |
Nid Storage |
270 |
Structural Height |
11.8 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Giese Wetland