Sunset Lake
Key Takeaway
Sunset Lake is classified as high hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 21 ft (taller than 63.7% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 820 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 200 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| NID ID | MN01012 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
City of Burnsville
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 20 ftJeffers Wildlife Pond
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UnknownJeffers Fish Pond
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UnknownJeffers Upper
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Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sunset Lake?
Sunset Lake 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 Sunset Lake?
Sunset Lake is owned by City of Burnsville (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sunset Lake built?
Sunset Lake was completed in 1983, making it 43 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 Sunset Lake?
Sunset Lake 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 Sunset Lake?
Sunset Lake has a dam height of 21 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 Sunset Lake last inspected?
Sunset Lake was last inspected on May 17, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.