Swenson Wetland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Swenson Wetland, located in Wendell, Minnesota, is a private fish and wildlife pond built in 1999 by the West Central MN JPB.


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Summary

This Earth dam structure stands at 16 feet tall and has a length of 375 feet, with a storage capacity of 183 acre-feet. The wetland covers a surface area of 19 acres and serves as a habitat for various aquatic species in the area.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Swenson Wetland is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and environmental impact. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the wetland poses moderate risk and is equipped with a needle outlet gate system. The Mustinka River serves as its primary water source, with a drainage area of 152 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 200 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Swenson Wetland offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its focus on fish and wildlife conservation, this wetland provides a valuable habitat for local flora and fauna, while also serving as a recreational and educational resource for the community. Its location in the picturesque Grant County, Minnesota, makes it a prime destination for nature lovers and environmental advocates looking to learn more about wetland management and conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MUSTINKA RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

152

Nid Storage

183

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.