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Future of the Rapidan Dam
Project Overview
The Rapidan Dam was built over 100 years ago and has been managed by Blue Earth County for the last 46 years. Throughout the years, the dam has experienced regular flooding—the second-highest flood on record occurring as recently as 2019. These flood events and the toll of time have caused significant damage to the dam’s structure and usability.
In 2021, a study was conducted that identified two feasible solutions for the dam’s state of disrepair: repair or remove the dam. Both options have significant costs, and each has its opportunities, trade-offs, and timeframes. The purpose of the Future of Rapidan Dam project is to identify the community’s needs and concerns and use their input on the options to help the County make the best decision for all impacted by the Dam’s future.
Watch the Rapidan Dam: Repair or Replace? video.
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- Final Engagement Report Summary
- Informational Documents
- FAQ's
- FERC Licensure Surrender
The official Rapidan Dam survey period closed on June 30th, but we are still welcoming comments while the results are being analyzed. Your feedback is critical so the County Board can make the best decision for the future of the Rapidan Dam.
On Tuesday, August 16, 2022, Bolton & Menk presented a report on engagement efforts regarding the future of the Rapidan Dam.
View the Rapidan Dam Engagement Summary Report.
The County has created a list of answers to frequently asked questions we heard through the process.
Blue Earth County has begun the Federal Energy Regulation Commission (FERC) exemption surrender process for the Rapidan Dam on the Blue Earth River in Rapidan Township.
An exemption surrender means that the FERC would no longer have regulatory authority over the dam. If the FERC surrenders the exemption, the Minnesota Department of Resources will have regulatory authority over the dam.
No changes to the dam structure are being proposed at this time.
Summary of Rapidan Dam FERC Licensure Surrender Process