Eidsvold 32 & Nordland 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Eidsvold 32 & Nordland 5, located in Lyon County, Minnesota, are two interconnected dams owned and regulated by the local government.


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Summary

These dams, with a core type of Buttress and a height of 22 feet, are designed for roadway retention along the Yellow Medicine River. The dams have a combined storage capacity of 204 acre-feet and are situated in an area with a drainage area of 3.5 square miles.

Despite their low hazard potential, these dams are subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The last inspection, conducted in May 2019, deemed the condition of the dams as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further assessment. With a maximum discharge capacity and a spillway width of 0 feet, these dams play a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique design and purpose of Eidsvold 32 & Nordland 5 dams serve as an interesting case study in sustainable water management. With the potential for future modifications and risk management measures, these dams highlight the importance of infrastructure resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. As we continue to monitor and assess the condition of these dams, it is essential to prioritize their safety and functionality for the benefit of the surrounding community and ecosystem.

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

YELLOW MEDICINE RIVER-TR

Drainage Area

3.5

Nid Storage

204

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.