MN Gov. Tim Walz Visits Rapidan Dam with State and County Officials

MANKATO — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz visited the Rapidan Dam yesterday for a press conference and was joined by Blue Earth County Commissioner Kevin Paap, who discussed the historical and traditional significance of the dam, park, campground and store that has served the community for generations.

Gov. Tim Walz

Walz discussed the significance of the flood waters that eroded so much of an embankment near the dam that a substation washed away into the river and the Dam Store had to be demolished. Walz and other officials from the state and county updated the public on the state of affairs of responders and funds that are being sought to rebuild and repair damage to homes, businesses and agricultural operations. The bridge near the dam is also facing structural integrity issues, Walz emphasized.