Sherco Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Sherco is a public utility located in Becker, Minnesota, along the Mississippi River.


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Summary

The dam, primarily used for purposes other than flood control or hydropower generation, stands at a height of 39 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,200 acre-feet. With a surface area of 100 acres, Sherco plays a crucial role in water resource management in the Sherburne County region.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Sherco is considered to have a significant hazard potential, but its condition assessment in 2013 deemed it satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in November 2017. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are currently not available, highlighting the need for further monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and resilience of this vital water resource infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sherco represents a key piece of infrastructure in the region's water management system. Its location on the Mississippi River and its role in storing and regulating water flow make it a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. As efforts to address climate change and enhance water security continue, Sherco serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the ongoing need for monitoring and maintenance of critical infrastructure.

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

MISSISSIPPI RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Nid Storage

3200

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.