Wavrin Wetland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wavrin Wetland, located in Steele County, Minnesota, is a privately owned fish and wildlife pond designed by NRCS and completed in 1999.


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Summary

This wetland serves as a crucial habitat for various species and plays a significant role in the local ecosystem. With a surface area of 20 acres and a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, Wavrin Wetland helps manage water flow and provide essential resources for wildlife.

The dam at Wavrin Wetland is an earthen structure with a height of 6 feet and a length of 805 feet. It has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition, last assessed in 2009. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 20 feet, aiding in managing water levels during periods of high discharge. Despite its modest size, Wavrin Wetland's impact on the surrounding environment and its role in water resource management make it a valuable asset in the region.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Wavrin Wetland is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement. This wetland not only provides a home for diverse wildlife but also contributes to overall water quality and quantity in the area. Its strategic location near Medford Creek-TR and its design for fish and wildlife purposes underscore its importance in preserving and enhancing the local ecosystem.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

805

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

MEDFORD CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

94

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.