Janesville Wildlife Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Janesville Wildlife, also known as Hansen Dam, is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Minnesota.


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Summary

This state-owned recreational site, managed by the USDA NRCS, sits along the Le Sueur River and offers a serene setting for outdoor activities. Completed in 1973, this Earth dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 520 feet, with a storage capacity of 2,432 acre-feet and a surface area of 215 acres.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Janesville Wildlife is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, this dam provides a haven for wildlife and a recreational oasis for visitors. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates add to the natural beauty of the surroundings, making it a must-visit location for those interested in water conservation and climate resilience.

Located in Waseca County, Minnesota, Janesville Wildlife is a prime example of how state agencies collaborate to manage and maintain water resources for recreational purposes. With a moderate risk assessment and a commitment to risk management measures, this site serves as a model for sustainable dam operations in the region. Whether you're interested in outdoor recreation, wildlife conservation, or climate adaptation, Janesville Wildlife offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water resources and climate resilience in a picturesque setting.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

LE SUEUR RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

215

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

49.1

Nid Storage

2432

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.