Sauk Centre

Sauk River· Stearns, Minnesota· Built 1935· Concrete· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Sauk Centre is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 57.4% in MN)
Dam Length92 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage25.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage18.0K acre-ft
Surface Area2,111 acres
Drainage Area304 sq mi
Max Discharge2,100 cfs
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
Year Modified1999
NID IDMN00967

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: August 30, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MNDNR EWR

Ownership

Water Light and Power

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sauk Centre?

Sauk Centre 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 Sauk Centre?

Sauk Centre is owned by Water Light and Power (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sauk Centre built?

Sauk Centre was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Sauk Centre?

Sauk Centre 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 Sauk Centre?

Sauk Centre has a dam height of 18 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 Sauk Centre last inspected?

Sauk Centre was last inspected on August 30, 2021. 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.