Jordan Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jordan Falls, also known as Sand Creek, is a recreational water resource located in Jordan, Minnesota.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1860, this dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a structural height of 28 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 14.9 acre-feet and a drainage area of 236 square miles, Jordan Falls provides a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the local government, Jordan Falls has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition assessment. Despite being a popular recreational spot, the dam does not have a specific primary dam type listed. The surrounding area covers 18 acres, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature along the Sand Creek. With its historical significance dating back over 150 years, Jordan Falls continues to attract visitors seeking a tranquil environment for relaxation and outdoor recreation.

Located in Scott County, Minnesota, Jordan Falls is part of the St. Paul District and is overseen by federal agencies. The dam has a maximum discharge of 5650 cubic feet per second and a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet. Although the dam's spillway type and width are not specified, the area is deemed to have low risk potential, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of this historic site.

Year Completed

1860

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

SAND CREEK

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

236

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.