Lazarus Creek

Lazarus Creek· Yellow Medicine, Minnesota· Built 2005· Earth· 67 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lazarus Creek is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 2005 and is 21 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 67 ft (taller than 98.5% in MN)
Dam Length700 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2.0K acre-ft
Drainage Area21 sq mi
Year Completed2005 (21 years old)
NID IDMN01359

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: May 10, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MNDNR EWR

Ownership

WD of Lac Qui Parle-Yellow Bank

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lazarus Creek?

Lazarus Creek is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lazarus Creek?

Lazarus Creek is owned by WD of Lac Qui Parle-Yellow Bank (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lazarus Creek built?

Lazarus Creek was completed in 2005, making it 21 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 Lazarus Creek?

Lazarus Creek serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lazarus Creek?

Lazarus Creek has a dam height of 67 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 Lazarus Creek last inspected?

Lazarus Creek was last inspected on May 10, 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.