Balsam Lake, located in Crooked Lake, Minnesota, is a state-regulated dam with a gravity type structure designed by WPA-C-CW and completed in 1936. This dam, standing at a height of 16 feet and a length of 30 feet, serves a primary purpose classified as 'Other'. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 13,980 acre-feet, with a maximum storage of 16,776 acre-feet, and a surface area of 103 acres. Balsam Lake is situated on Balsam Creek, within the St. Paul District, and is owned by the state of Minnesota.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Balsam Lake dam is inspected every 8 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection was conducted in June 2018, with the dam meeting regulatory requirements and guidelines set by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR). The dam is equipped with emergency action plans (EAP) and has emergency contacts updated regularly, further enhancing its risk management measures.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Balsam Lake dam to be a fascinating structure, not only for its historical significance as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project but also for its vital role in water management and flood control within the Itasca County area. As a regulated and inspected dam, Balsam Lake serves as a testament to the state's commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of its water infrastructure.