W9 Water Quality Reservoir Report
Nearby: Herlein-Boote Wma Lake Okabena
Last Updated: February 24, 2026
W9 Water Quality, also known as Okabena-Bella, is a local government-owned structure in Zumbro Falls, Minnesota, designed by HDR ENG.
Summary
This dam on Okabena Creek serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction and was completed in 2001. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 265 feet, it has a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 92 acre-feet.
This low hazard potential dam with a satisfactory condition assessment underwent its last inspection in November 2018, with a frequency of every 8 years. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 25 feet, and it is equipped with uncontrolled outlet gates. The risk assessment for W9 Water Quality is considered moderate, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) yet to be assigned. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, highlighting its importance for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
265 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
OKABENA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
700 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
W9 Water Quality