Runestone Park Wetland Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Runestone Park Wetland in Kensington, Minnesota, is a vital water resource managed by local government authorities for fish and wildlife conservation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1995 by the NRCS, this Earth dam structure serves as a sanctuary for various species in the region, with a primary purpose of maintaining a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The wetland covers an area of 54 acres and has a storage capacity of 187 acre-feet, with a controlled spillway to manage excess water flow.

Located in Douglas County along the Chippewa River, Runestone Park Wetland plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing a habitat for diverse aquatic life and serving as a recreational area for residents. The dam, with a height of 7 feet and a length of 40 feet, has been inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2017, the wetland is a well-maintained and secure water resource in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Runestone Park Wetland is classified as having a very high risk due to its critical importance for wildlife and water conservation. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are yet to be fully documented, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and preparedness. With its picturesque surroundings and ecological significance, this wetland stands as a testament to the efforts of local government agencies in preserving and protecting valuable water resources in Minnesota.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

40

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

CHIPPEWA RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

187

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.