Stanchfield Lake, located in Morrison County, Minnesota, is a gravity dam constructed in 1956 primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. The dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 48 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 1450 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1785 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 38 acres and is situated along the Crow Wing River, providing essential water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR EWR), Stanchfield Lake is under state jurisdiction with regulatory agencies overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols. The dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of August 2017. While the dam does not have associated locks or spillways, it serves as a vital component in the overall flood risk reduction strategy for the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 140 cubic feet per second.

Despite its modest size and low hazard potential, Stanchfield Lake plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from flooding events. With its strategic location along the Crow Wing River and efficient water management practices, the lake serves as a testament to sustainable resource utilization and climate resilience in Morrison County. Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find Stanchfield Lake to be a fascinating example of innovative infrastructure designed to mitigate flooding risks and safeguard the environment for future generations.