Lanesboro

Root River South Branch· Fillmore, Minnesota· Built 1868· Other· 34 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lanesboro is classified as high hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1868 and is 158 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 34 ft (taller than 89% in MN)
Dam Length193 ft
Dam TypeOther
Max Storage1.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage110 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area297 sq mi
Max Discharge16,700 cfs
Year Completed1868 (158 years old)
NID IDMN00517

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 26, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MNDNR EWR

Ownership

City of Lanesboro

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lanesboro?

Lanesboro is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lanesboro?

Lanesboro is owned by City of Lanesboro (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lanesboro built?

Lanesboro was completed in 1868, making it 158 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 Lanesboro?

Lanesboro serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lanesboro?

Lanesboro has a dam height of 34 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.

When was Lanesboro last inspected?

Lanesboro was last inspected on April 26, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.