Rapidan

Blue Earth· Blue Earth, Minnesota· Built 1910· Buttress· 73 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Not Listed

Key Takeaway

Rapidan is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 73 ft (taller than 98.7% in MN)
Dam Length414 ft
Dam TypeButtress
Max Storage8.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage8.3K acre-ft
Surface Area415 acres
Drainage Area2,430 sq mi
Max Discharge51,700 cfs
Year Completed1910 (116 years old)
NID IDMN00512

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: Yes
Last Inspection: September 15, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MNDNR EWR

Ownership

Not Listed

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rapidan?

Rapidan 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 Rapidan?

Rapidan is owned by information not available (Not Listed). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rapidan built?

Rapidan was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Rapidan?

Rapidan 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 Rapidan?

Rapidan has a dam height of 73 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 Rapidan last inspected?

Rapidan was last inspected on September 15, 2022. 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.