Summary
Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1968 for flood risk reduction purposes. With a dam height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 1400 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
The dam is situated on the Two Rivers North Branch-Tr in the city of Lancaster, with a drainage area of 31.25 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 950 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory and meets regulatory standards for inspection and enforcement by the MNDNR EWR. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates help manage water levels during periods of high flow, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.
Surrounded by a surface area of 23 acres, Horseshoe Lake Wildlife provides a habitat for diverse wildlife and serves as a recreational area for outdoor enthusiasts. With its moderate risk assessment rating and regular inspection schedule, this dam continues to be a vital asset in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
40 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TWO RIVERS N BRANCH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Drainage Area |
31.25 |
Nid Storage |
1400 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Horseshoe Lake Wildlife