Pine Tree Valley Pond, located in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Mississippi River. Owned by the local government and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 300 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 229 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.82 square miles, the pond covers 3.5 acres and is equipped with a controlled spillway to manage excess water flow.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Pine Tree Valley Pond is deemed to have a very high risk level (1) due to its location and purpose. The dam has been inspected periodically, with the last assessment conducted in November 2017, and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Though no emergency action plan is currently prepared, the structure is well-maintained and monitored to ensure its effectiveness in flood control and water management. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pine Tree Valley Pond stands as a testament to the importance of proactive infrastructure in mitigating natural disasters and preserving local ecosystems.