Phelps Mill Pond
Key Takeaway
Phelps Mill Pond is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1873 and is 153 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 37.6% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 120 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 1.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 960 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 1,066 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1873 (153 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00202 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
County of Otter Tail
Local Government
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Phelps Mill Pond?
Phelps Mill Pond 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 Phelps Mill Pond?
Phelps Mill Pond is owned by County of Otter Tail (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Phelps Mill Pond built?
Phelps Mill Pond was completed in 1873, making it 153 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 Phelps Mill Pond?
Phelps Mill Pond serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Phelps Mill Pond?
Phelps Mill Pond has a dam height of 11 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 Phelps Mill Pond last inspected?
Phelps Mill Pond was last inspected on August 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.