Holly Twp 16 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Holly Twp 16, located in Walnut Grove, Minnesota, is a privately-owned earth dam designed by Duane Hansel for flood risk reduction along Plum Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 25.4 feet with a length of 210 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 18 acre-feet and a normal storage of 8 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in May 2018.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, this structure plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a drainage area of 0.1 square miles, Holly Twp 16 serves as a crucial asset in water resource management in Murray County. Although the dam may require further maintenance to improve its condition assessment, its operational capabilities and state-regulated status ensure ongoing flood risk reduction measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Holly Twp 16 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and flood management. The collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies highlights the importance of maintaining and inspecting critical structures to mitigate potential hazards. As discussions around climate change and its impact on water resources continue to evolve, understanding the role of dams like Holly Twp 16 becomes increasingly significant in safeguarding communities and natural ecosystems from the challenges of a changing climate.

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

25.4

River Or Stream

PLUM CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.