Preston Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Preston Lake, located in Brownton, Minnesota, is a local government-owned water resource with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The lake has a dam with a height of 7 feet and a storage capacity of 1800 acre-feet. With a surface area of 678 acres and a drainage area of 14.4 square miles, Preston Lake provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.

Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, Preston Lake is assessed to be in fair condition as of May 2009. The dam structure consists of buttress core types with an unlisted/unknown foundation. The last inspection conducted on the lake's facilities was in May 2018, with an inspection frequency of 8 years. In the event of an emergency, the lake has protocols in place to ensure public safety, although detailed emergency action plans are not explicitly stated in the available data.

Overall, Preston Lake offers a tranquil environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities. With its scenic location, ample storage capacity, and low hazard potential, the lake serves as a valuable asset for the community of Brownton, Minnesota, and a potential area for further exploration and appreciation of the natural environment.

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

JUDICIAL DITCH 28A

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

678

Drainage Area

14.4

Nid Storage

1800

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.