Manston Slough Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Manston Slough is a significant water resource in Minnesota, situated in Wilkin County near the city of Georgetown.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by local government authorities, the slough serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, with a primary dam type of Earth and a hydraulic height of 5 feet. Completed in 2015, the slough has a storage capacity of 21,414 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6,043 acres, providing essential habitat for various species of fish and wildlife.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Manston Slough plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the area. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated", the slough is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite its modest size, the slough contributes to the overall health of the Buffalo River South Branch watershed and is a key component of the local ecosystem.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Manston Slough offers a fascinating example of sustainable water management and conservation efforts in Minnesota. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the slough serves as a vital habitat for wildlife and a reliable source of water storage for the surrounding area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and proper management of sites like Manston Slough are essential for ensuring the continued health and resilience of our ecosystems.

Year Completed

2015

Dam Length

38000

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

BUFFALO R SO BRANCH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6043

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

28

Nid Storage

21414

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.