Big Swamp
Key Takeaway
Big Swamp is classified as low hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 50.4% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 26,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 150 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00553 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USFWS
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Swamp?
Big Swamp is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Swamp?
Big Swamp is owned by USFWS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Swamp built?
Big Swamp was completed in 1965, making it 61 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Swamp?
Big Swamp serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Swamp?
Big Swamp has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.