The St. Louis River, located in Forbes, Minnesota, is a vital water supply structure owned by Oglebay Norton Co. The dam, completed in 1963, serves the primary purpose of water supply and is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. With a height of 19 feet and a length of 126 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 26,000 cubic feet per second.

The St. Louis River dam is classified as having low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2009. Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam indicates a very high risk level (1). The structure is equipped with a controlled spillway and is not associated with any locks or associated structures. The St. Louis River plays a crucial role in water resource management in St. Louis County, Minnesota, with a drainage area of 715.5 square miles.

As a significant water supply source in the region, the St. Louis River dam underscores the importance of monitoring and maintaining water infrastructure to ensure the safety and security of communities that rely on it. With its regulated status and satisfactory condition, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices in the face of potential risks and challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the St. Louis River serves as a microcosm of the intricate balance between water supply needs and environmental considerations in the modern age.