Gilchrist Twp 36 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Gilchrist Twp 36, a private fish and wildlife pond located in Benson, Minnesota, is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Division of Ecological and Water Resources.
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Summary
The dam, constructed as a rockfill type with a buttress core, stands at a height of 18.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 57.4 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this structure plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for the community.
Situated on Mud Creek-TR in Pope County, Gilchrist Twp 36 covers a surface area of 5.4 acres and serves a drainage area of 0.4 square miles. Despite not having a designated spillway type or outlet gates, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 57.4 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 19 acre-feet. While the structure has not been rated for its condition, regular inspections are conducted every 8 years to ensure its integrity and safety. As a significant feature in the area, Gilchrist Twp 36 contributes to water resource management and conservation efforts in Minnesota.
Managed under state jurisdiction and owned privately, Gilchrist Twp 36 provides valuable habitat for fish and wildlife while offering recreational opportunities for the local community. With its strategic location and purpose, this rockfill dam continues to support ecological balance and enhance the natural landscape of Pope County. As a testament to effective water resource management, this structure plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and sustainability of the surrounding environment, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and study.
Dam Length |
150 |
Dam Height |
18.5 |
River Or Stream |
MUD CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
5.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
57.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chippewa River Near Milan
|
624cfs |
Chippewa River Near Watson
|
423cfs |
Pomme De Terre River At Appleton
|
237cfs |
Minnesota River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
1240cfs |
Minnesota River At Montevideo
|
1810cfs |
Lac Qui Parle River Near Lac Qui Parle
|
536cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Monson Lake State Park campground
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Swift Falls County Park Campground
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Games Lake County Park
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Gilchrist Twp 36