West Hill Mine Pit Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

West Hill Mine Pit, located in Coleraine, Minnesota, is a privately owned rockfill dam with a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet.


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Summary

This significant structure is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite its condition being rated as "Not Rated", the dam's hazard potential is considered to be significant, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

The dam, completed in an unspecified year, serves a primary purpose that falls under the "Other" category, with no specific details provided on its design or construction. The last inspection conducted on June 6, 2018, indicated that the dam has an inspection frequency of 4 years, suggesting a consistent monitoring schedule. While there are no emergency action plans or inundation maps prepared for this structure, the presence of outlet gates signifies some level of operational control over water flow.

As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the West Hill Mine Pit presents an opportunity for further study and engagement in understanding the management of water resources in the region. Its location in Koochiching County and affiliation with Congressional District 08, Minnesota, adds to its significance within the local landscape. The dam's presence underscores the importance of maintaining infrastructure to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the sustainable use of water resources in the area.

Dam Length

20

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Nid Storage

2300

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant
       
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.