Henry Neuman Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Henry Neuman Detention, also known as Isaac Walton League, is a private earth dam located in Elba, Minnesota.


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Summary

Built in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this flood risk reduction structure stands at 26 feet tall and stretches 332 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.47 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks along the Whitewater River S Branch.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Henry Neuman Detention has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in June 2017. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures. Its role in safeguarding the surrounding area from flooding underscores the vital link between water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Henry Neuman Detention serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private entities and state regulatory agencies in safeguarding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. Its strategic location within the St. Paul District and the oversight provided by the MNDNR EWR ensure that this earth dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood risk reduction. As discussions around climate change intensify, structures like Henry Neuman Detention play a crucial role in building resilience and adaptive capacity in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

332

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

WHITEWATER RIVER S BR-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.47

Nid Storage

52

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.