Feldmeier Detention in Houston, Minnesota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1974 by the NRCS for flood risk reduction on the Root River. Standing at a height of 29 feet and spanning 300 feet in length, this dam has a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of mitigating flood risks in the area. With a fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, Feldmeier Detention plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and security of the surrounding community.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its ongoing functionality and safety. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Feldmeier Detention is moderate. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with a spillway width of 80 feet. The last inspection was conducted in May 2018, with regular inspections scheduled every 8 years to assess its condition and performance.

Located in the St. Paul District, Feldmeier Detention is part of the comprehensive flood risk reduction strategy in the region. With its strategic design and operational features, this earth dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource and climate management. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, the role of dams like Feldmeier Detention becomes increasingly vital in safeguarding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.