Sand Hill River Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bejou Wma Sand Hill No. 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Sand Hill River in Minnesota is a crucial water resource managed by the local government for flood risk reduction.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1980, stands at 20 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 1600 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 151 square miles. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding.
Located in Norman County, the Sand Hill River dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The dam's primary purpose is to mitigate the impact of high water levels on the surrounding community, with a spillway width of 0 feet and no locks associated with the structure. The dam's satisfactory condition and low hazard potential reflect its importance in safeguarding the region from potential water-related disasters.
With a focus on maintaining the dam's structural integrity and operational efficiency, the local government in Fertile, Minnesota, works in collaboration with state regulators to ensure the Sand Hill River dam continues to serve its purpose effectively. Through regular inspections and assessments, the authorities strive to uphold the safety and functionality of this essential water resource, contributing to the overall resilience of the community in the face of changing climate conditions and water management challenges.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SAND HILL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1000 |
Drainage Area |
151 |
Nid Storage |
1600 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Sand Hill River