I-94 Rest Area Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Lakeland Shores, Minnesota, the I-94 Rest Area serves as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the St.


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Summary

Croix River. Built in 1985 by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT), this Earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding in the region.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Ecological and Water Resources division, the I-94 Rest Area undergoes regular inspections to ensure its operational efficiency and structural integrity. Despite its relatively modest size, this dam covers a drainage area of 51.9 square miles and provides essential flood protection for the surrounding communities. With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the dam's construction and design by MNDOT reflect a commitment to safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience in the area.

Representing a successful collaboration between state agencies and the local community, the I-94 Rest Area stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Minnesota. As a key component of the flood control system along the St. Croix River, this dam plays a vital role in protecting both infrastructure and natural habitats from the impacts of extreme weather events. With its satisfactory condition and low hazard potential, the I-94 Rest Area exemplifies the importance of proactive planning and maintenance in ensuring water security and climate adaptation in the region.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

ST. CROIX RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

51.9

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.