Judicial Ditch 34 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fox Lake Diversion Jackson
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Judicial Ditch 34, located in Martin County, Minnesota, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for grade stabilization purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam structure stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 570 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 2.4 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the last inspection conducted in November 2012 highlighted the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.
Owned and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Judicial Ditch 34 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing erosion in the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 570 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 24 acre-feet, this structure covers a surface area of 4 acres. While the dam itself has a sturdy buttress core and an unlisted/unknown foundation, its operational status and structural integrity warrant ongoing attention to mitigate any potential risks associated with its aging infrastructure.
In the event of emergencies, the lack of an established Emergency Action Plan (EAP) raises concerns regarding the readiness and response protocols in place for Judicial Ditch 34. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, it is imperative for local authorities to prioritize the development of comprehensive risk management measures and regular inspections to safeguard this essential water resource for future generations.
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
JUDICIAL DITCH 34 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
2.4 |
Nid Storage |
570 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Judicial Ditch 34