West Two River
Key Takeaway
West Two River is classified as significant hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 40 ft (taller than 93.1% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 720 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 16.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.5K acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 31 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00792 |
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
US Steel
Private
Nearby Dams
Buhl Detention
St. Louis, MN
Low Hazard 11 ftSherman Group Tailings
St. Louis, MN
Low Hazard 48 ftWabigone Tailings
St. Louis, MN
Low Hazard 10 ftSt. Louis River
St. Louis, MN
Low Hazard 19 ftSherman Mine Wastewater
St. Louis, MN
Low Hazard 20 ftMinntac Tailings
St. Louis, MN
Low Hazard 50 ftDouglas Tailings
St. Louis, MN
Significant Hazard 40 ftEveleth Taconite Tailings
St. Louis, MN
High Hazard 50 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of West Two River?
West Two River 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 West Two River?
West Two River is owned by US Steel (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Two River built?
West Two River was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 West Two River?
West Two River serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is West Two River?
West Two River has a dam height of 40 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 West Two River last inspected?
West Two River was last inspected on September 28, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.