Nordland 5 & 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Nordland 5 & 8 in Minnesota is a vital water resource managed by the local government for the purpose of roadway retention.


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Summary

This structure, designed by ROADWAY RETENTION, falls under state jurisdiction and regulation by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Environmental and Water Resources division. With a dam height of 16 feet and a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet, Nordland 5 & 8 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage within the area.

Located in Lyon County, Minnesota, Nordland 5 & 8 is situated along the South Branch Yellow Medicine River, contributing to a drainage area of 20.7 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential and current condition assessment being "Not Rated", the structure undergoes regular inspections every 8 years to ensure its safety and functionality. While the dam's primary purpose and construction year are unspecified, it serves as a key component in maintaining water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region, highlighting the importance of responsible water management in the face of changing climate patterns.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource experts continue to monitor and evaluate the impact of climate change on water infrastructure, structures like Nordland 5 & 8 play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against potential water-related hazards. With its buttress core type and 820-foot length, this dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the need for sustainable water management practices to adapt to a rapidly changing climate landscape. As efforts to enhance resilience and sustainability in water resource management intensify, Nordland 5 & 8 stands as a testament to the crucial role of infrastructure in fostering a more water-secure future for all.

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

SO BR YELLOW MEDICINE-TR

Drainage Area

20.7

Nid Storage

158

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.