Riekmann Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Riekmann is a private dam located in Goodhue, Minnesota, along the Wells Creek-TR stream, near the Mississippi River.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.5 acres, Riekmann plays a crucial role in managing water levels in the area and protecting surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Riekmann has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2013. The dam features a buttress core type and is subject to regular inspections every 8 years to ensure its structural integrity. Although there have been no recorded modifications or major incidents at Riekmann, it remains an essential piece of infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Overall, Riekmann stands as a testament to the importance of proactive flood risk reduction measures in the face of climate change and increasing water-related challenges. Its presence not only safeguards local communities from potential disasters but also highlights the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in ensuring the safety and resilience of water infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and supporting structures like Riekmann is essential for sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

WELLS CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.