Goldmine Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Goldmine is a federal-owned concrete dam located in St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota, specifically in the city of Buyck. Managed by the Superior National Forest, the dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond and recreational area, with a primary purpose of supporting aquatic habitats. Completed in 1993, Goldmine has a structural height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 14 feet, with a storage capacity of 598 acre-feet and a surface area of 126 acres.

The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and a slide gate as an outlet. Despite its low hazard potential, Goldmine is classified as having a very high risk due to its condition assessment being marked as "Not Rated." The last inspection of the dam was conducted in August 2015, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. While the risk assessment indicates potential concerns, the specific risk management measures and emergency action plans for the dam are currently undisclosed.

Overall, Goldmine presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the complex interplay between dam infrastructure, environmental conservation, and risk management strategies. As a vital component of the local ecosystem, understanding and monitoring the condition of Goldmine is crucial for ensuring the safety of nearby communities and the preservation of wildlife habitats.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

198

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

UNNAMED CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

126

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

598

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.