Plummer Basin Sw Clear Water Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Plummer Basin Sw Clear Water Pond, located in Itasca County, Minnesota, is a privately owned dam designed by MAGNETATION for tailings storage.


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Summary

Constructed in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches 2100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 12 acres and drains an area of the same size, with a controlled spillway in place to manage water discharge.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, this dam is under state regulation and inspection, ensuring its safety and compliance with required standards. The risk assessment for this structure is deemed very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections every 8 years help to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Plummer Basin Sw Clear Water Pond in managing tailings and water storage in the region. Its location on the Swan River-OS tributary and the efforts of the MNDNR EWR in overseeing its operations highlight the interconnectedness of water resources and environmental management in Minnesota. As part of the larger St. Paul District, this dam showcases the importance of infrastructure in balancing human needs with environmental conservation in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

SWAN RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.