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.