White Rock Dam
Key Takeaway
White Rock Dam is classified as high hazard in Minnesota. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 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 | 20 ft (taller than 60.7% in MN) |
| Dam Length | 14,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 95.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,850 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,160 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1941 (85 years old) |
| NID ID | MN00577 |
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
USACE - St. Paul District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of White Rock Dam?
White Rock Dam 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 White Rock Dam?
White Rock Dam is owned by USACE - St. Paul District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was White Rock Dam built?
White Rock Dam was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 White Rock Dam?
White Rock Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is White Rock Dam?
White Rock Dam has a dam height of 20 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 White Rock Dam last inspected?
White Rock Dam was last inspected on July 17, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.