Sodus 4 S Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Sodus 4 S is a local government-owned structure located in Lyon, Minnesota, designed for roadway retention.


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Summary

This dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and is permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. The dam sits on Meadow Creek-TR and is classified as a Buttress dam with a height of 33 feet and a length of 1000 feet. It has a storage capacity of 480 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 2.2 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Sodus 4 S has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection took place in April 2019, with a frequency of once every 8 years. Emergency action plans, risk assessments, and inundation maps for the dam are not currently available. The structure does not have any associated locks or spillways, and its operations and maintenance are not funded or regulated by federal agencies. Sodus 4 S presents an essential piece of infrastructure in managing water resources in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sodus 4 S offers a fascinating case study in local dam management and regulation. With its unique design and purpose, this structure plays a crucial role in flood control and water retention in the region. Understanding the intricacies of its ownership, regulation, and maintenance provides valuable insights into the complexities of managing water infrastructure in a changing climate. As efforts continue to assess and improve the condition of Sodus 4 S, it serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management for communities and ecosystems alike.

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

MEADOW CREEK-TR

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

480

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.