Luverne West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Luverne West, located in Rock County, Minnesota, is a local government-owned Earth dam constructed in 1997 by DGR and Associates for the primary purpose of Flood Risk Reduction along the Rock River.


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Summary

This structure stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 1050 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Luverne West is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its optimal functioning.

Situated in the St. Paul District, Luverne West serves as a crucial flood control measure for the surrounding area, offering protection against potential inundation. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, this dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a manageable level of risk associated with its operation. Overlooking the scenic landscape of the Rock River, Luverne West exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the importance of infrastructure in mitigating flood-related hazards and safeguarding communities in Minnesota.

As a vital component of the local flood risk reduction strategy, Luverne West plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the residents of LUVERNE and the broader Rock County area from the impacts of potential flooding events. With its satisfactory condition and regular inspections, this Earth dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and underscores the significance of proactive measures in addressing climate-related challenges. The collaboration between state agencies, designers, and the local government in overseeing and maintaining Luverne West exemplifies a comprehensive approach to ensuring the safety and resilience of the community in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

ROCK RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

71

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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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.