Ecklund, also known as Ripple River Wma, is a state-owned fish and wildlife pond located in Aitkin, Minnesota. This Earth dam, completed in 1987, stands at a height of 10 feet with a structural height of 12 feet and a length of 600 feet. While the dam's primary purpose is for fish and wildlife conservation, its poor condition assessment and very high risk rating highlight the need for maintenance and risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety.

The dam has a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 1 square mile. Despite its low hazard potential, the lack of recent inspections and emergency action plans raises concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential threats. With a maximum discharge of 30 cubic feet per second and controlled spillway type, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to acknowledge the significance of structures like Ecklund in maintaining ecosystems and protecting wildlife habitats. By staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Ecklund, we can contribute to preserving water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change on our environment.