Black River Imp Reservoir Report
Nearby: Goose Lake-Pembina Wma Schirrick
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Black River Imp, located in Pennington, Minnesota, is a local government-owned earth dam designed by Houston Eng for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
It is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam has a storage capacity of 5412 acre-feet and is associated with a drainage area of 16.8 square miles, making it a crucial infrastructure for managing water resources in the region.
Despite its significant hazard potential, the condition of Black River Imp has not been rated yet. The dam does not have an emergency action plan prepared, and its last inspection date and condition assessment are unknown. However, with its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during extreme weather events. Climate enthusiasts and water resource managers can keep a close eye on Black River Imp for any updates on its risk assessment and management measures.
In the event of an emergency, the lack of an updated emergency action plan and inundation maps for Black River Imp could pose challenges for risk assessment and management. It is essential for the local government and regulatory agencies to ensure that proper emergency protocols are in place to protect downstream communities and infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Black River Imp will be crucial in safeguarding against flooding and other water-related hazards.
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
16.8 |
Nid Storage |
5412 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Black River Imp