Long Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Long Lake in Cottonwood, Minnesota is a state-regulated body of water with a dam constructed in 2017 for flood control purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 10 feet in height, has a storage capacity of 585 acre-feet and serves as a crucial component in managing the surrounding drainage area of 0.24 square miles. The dam is of Buttress core type and is owned and regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR), with inspection and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential, Long Lake plays a vital role in the local water resource management system and provides a reliable source of water for the area. The dam's construction and operation are subject to state permitting and inspection, highlighting the commitment to maintaining its integrity. Located within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction, Long Lake is a testament to responsible water infrastructure development in the face of climate change challenges.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Long Lake as a case study in sustainable dam construction and management practices. As part of the state's regulatory framework, the dam represents a proactive approach to addressing water-related hazards and ensuring the safety of communities in the region. With its storage capacity and low hazard potential, Long Lake serves as a model for effective water resource management in Minnesota, demonstrating the importance of collaboration between state agencies and local stakeholders in safeguarding valuable water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

2017

Dam Height

10

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

585

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.