Twp Road 30 West is a vital infrastructure project located in Lyon County, Minnesota, designed for flood risk reduction along the Cottonwood River. Completed in 1999, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 250 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 212 acre-feet. Despite its crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from flooding, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, highlighting the need for maintenance and improvements to ensure its long-term effectiveness.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Twp Road 30 West serves as a key defense mechanism against potential inundation events. With a low hazard potential but moderate risk assessment rating, the dam presents a complex challenge for stakeholders involved in its upkeep. Regular inspections are conducted to monitor its structural integrity, with a prescribed frequency of every 8 years to assess its operational readiness and overall safety measures. Efforts to enhance the dam's risk management strategies and emergency response protocols are essential to mitigate potential threats and protect downstream communities.

As climate change continues to exacerbate the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the importance of resilient water resource infrastructure like Twp Road 30 West cannot be overstated. Collaboration between state and local agencies, along with proactive maintenance and risk mitigation measures, will be crucial in ensuring the long-term functionality and effectiveness of this critical flood control structure. By prioritizing investments in infrastructure resilience and adaptation strategies, stakeholders can better protect communities and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate landscape.