Emerald Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Emerald Valley, located in Jackson, Minnesota, is a privately-owned dam that plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the Heron Lake-TR river system.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at 27 feet tall and stretches 260 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. Although it was completed in an unspecified year, the dam is regularly inspected by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to ensure its structural integrity and regulatory compliance.

Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Emerald Valley dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. However, it is equipped with an emergency action plan and emergency contacts for quick response in case of any unforeseen incidents. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its presence serves as a vital resource for water management and conservation efforts in the region.

As a part of the Rock Island District and under the regulatory oversight of the MNDNR EWR, Emerald Valley dam stands as a testament to the importance of private ownership in maintaining essential water infrastructure. Its location in the picturesque Emerald Valley area adds to its significance, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

HERON LAKE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.